September 3 | Written By Jess Wilkinson

The numerous influences of ‘This Dream of Mine + B Sides’ by Marseille present themselves from the moment the listener hits play: vocals reminiscent of Liam Gallagher; the swirling psychedelia of The Beach Boys; the production and dreamy quality of New Order, Joy Division and The Stone Roses; even the spritely guitar sound of Johnny Marr. 

Formed in late 2021 in Derby, Marseille consists of Will Brown, Joe Labram, Lennon Hall, Felix Moxey and Tom Spray. Their roots are firmly in 90s Manchester and 60s Merseybeat, movements which have inspired endless modern bands such as The 1975, Pale Waves, The Courteeners and more. The overarching Madchester sound reincarnated through these bands in the 2010s-2020s is very much present in Marseille.

‘This Dream of Mine + B Sides’ all have their own distinct mood, as well as the specific bands each single is modelled in the image of. ‘This Dream of Mine’ has the incessant energy of ‘This Charming Man.’ ‘Brightest Star’ is instantly reminiscent of ‘There She Goes’ by The La’s. ‘The Devil’s Gonna Get You’ exudes the atmosphere of ‘I Wanna Be Adored’ by The Stone Roses, with its extended build-up and lamenting vocals. ‘I Love You (So Much More)’ recalls ‘She’s Electric’ and ‘Stand by Me’ by Oasis. 

But while Marseille’s huge tapestry of favoured musicians are integral to their sound, they are already becoming so much more than their influences. They bring a level of energy to every song, simultaneously honour their musical heroes and transcend them to create their own niche, and create a perfect balance between poppy optimism and the signature 90s pessimism. 

While the musical influences of the song are key to its feeling, ‘This Dream of Mine’ stands on its own. It inspires an instant spike of energy in the listener, transporting them to a dimension of neon lights and shameless dancing. It’s something about the fast tempo, the upbeat guitar, the variety of riffs and solos; it keeps you on your toes with its bubbly, restless, endlessly cheerful tone. 

Marseille is definitely one to watch. Any fans of Britpop, Madchester, and 60s psychedelia will no doubt love them. What else might they do with their unique melting-pot approach to music?

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