Tribes - Sappho

Tribes chose to return with single ‘Sappho’ because it was a firm live favourite, and you can sure see why. It’s nostalgic as ever, with a scuzzy riff rooted in grunge, a touch of glam, and woozy melodies that would be at home in 60’s psychedelic rock.

As well as playing dot-to-dot with musical genres, Tribes have also delved into history for lyrical inspiration, basing the modern day ‘Sappho’ on a Greek lesbian who spent much of her time getting up to shenanigans with fellow islanders. The 21st century counterpart seems much the same, leading husbands and fathers astray with her wild lampshade kicking antics, and asking very direct (and quite odd) questions like “Do my pheromones make you happy?”.

Singer Johnny Lloyd’s vocals go from wavering to yowling, quite understandably, as he finds out he has gone home with someone who plays for the other team. It turns out that the poor boy’s frustrated angst is not for nothing though, as it fits perfectly with Tribes’ brand of grunge infused rock. He might not be getting any, but we’re left with a tale of lovelorn abandonment, and a new favourite song.