Arab Strap

Ah, Arab Strap. The Scottish duo comprised of Aidan Moffat and Malcolm Middleton, known for their dark, intimate lyrics and lo-fi sound. With a career spanning over two decades, Arab Strap have cemented their place in the annals of indie music history.

Moffat's gritty, poetic storytelling paired with Middleton's melancholic guitar melodies have created a distinctive sound that is both haunting and beautiful. Their songs delve into the complexities of relationships, sex, and the struggles of everyday life, often with a dark sense of humour that is uniquely their own.

Arab Strap's debut album, "The Week Never Starts Round Here," was released in 1996 to critical acclaim, establishing them as leading figures in the Scottish music scene. Subsequent albums such as "Philophobia" and "The Red Thread" further solidified their reputation as masters of emotive indie rock.

But Arab Strap are not just about brooding ballads and introspective musings. Their live performances are legendary for their raucous energy and unfiltered honesty. Moffat's charismatic stage presence and Middleton's raw guitar riffs create an electrifying atmosphere that leaves audiences spellbound.

In 2020, Arab Strap made their triumphant return with the release of "As Days Get Dark," their first album in 16 years. The album received widespread critical acclaim, with Pitchfork praising its "moody atmosphere" and "brutally honest lyrics."

Arab Strap may not be everyone's cup of tea, but for those who appreciate raw, unapologetic storytelling and evocative music, they are a breath of fresh air in a sea of generic indie bands. Love them or hate them, Arab Strap will always be remembered as one of the most eccentric and innovative bands to come out of Scotland.