JUST LISTEN: URBAN ARCHITECTS – A STROKE OF LUCK
Urban Architects
A Stroke of Luck
Words by Daniel Burton
A Stroke of Luck is the upbeat anthem that everyone was in need of this summer. We may be 8 months into 2021, and 2 waves of a pandemic since Urban Architects’ last release, but rest-assured it has been well worth the wait.
The opening verse greets us with the soulful and powerful voice of singer Harry, one which we are now accustomed to hearing from the previous releases from Urban Architects. Entering into the pre-chorus, there is a distinct change in the tone and rhythm which presents an effect that instantly brightens the track keeping the listener encapsulated. This is coupled with the bridge that is so eloquently styled to slow the pace down ever so slightly yet is the ultimate preamble to the final chorus and outro which perfectly rounds off this brilliant track.
Featuring throughout the record, the primary riff is relatively simply yet is so effective, penetrating through the tracking to the forefront leading the song alongside the vocals. Despite this, the other elements are still very much prominent and key in creating this well rounded record. This effect is helped by the track being recorded directly to tape at Chapel Studios, which has allowed the raw sound to bleed through and reflect the retro approach which the band aspire to attain.
Over the preceding releases by Urban Architects, they appeared to have followed the well trodden path of their influences, such as The Strokes and Arctic Monkeys, by experimenting with styles within the indie/rock genre to hone into ‘their’ sound. With A Stroke of Luck, it feels as if Urban Architects have found that sound, the sound that will define who they are to become as a band. After making it to the final 16 of the Bandzai Battle of the Bands competition earlier this month, this is yet another extremely positive step for the band and the future is certainly looking bright.
Live dates:
EBGBS, Liverpool – 10/09/21 *supporting Headshrinkers
