Bradley Murray, known for his previous role as the owner of Wireless Records and his involvement in the band Sunny Disposition, presents his latest music project, The Finch Cycle, with the release of their highly anticipated album, “Mt. Pilot.” Written, recorded, and mixed throughout 2023 in regional cities of Ballarat, Bendigo, and Wangaratta in Victoria, Australia, this album showcases Murray’s blend of indie rock experience and his love for post-rock.
At its core, “Mt. Pilot” is a post-rock masterpiece that also pays homage to the beautifully emotive indie rock sound of Australian bands like Bluebottle Kiss. The album captures the essence of the 90s and early 00s, where guitars had the power to lull and serenade while also swerving and coruscating, creating an intricate tapestry of emotions.
Critics have praised The Finch Cycle, with Doubtful Sounds stating, “It’s post-rock at its core but also dials into the beautifully emotive indie rock sound of Australian bands such as Bluebottle Kiss.” Idioteq adds, “[The Finch Cycle is] emerging as one of the most interesting offerings in the post-rock genre this year. The result is a multi-layered beauty of a record, blending many contrary moods and locking them into one hell of an experience.”
In a recent interview with The Punk Head, Murray shared insights into the creation of “Mt. Pilot,” stating, “This is the first album I have ever made. Up to this point, I had only ever made EPs. The process of creating enough material for an ‘album’ took most of 2023. I wanted to create something that stayed true to the music I love while exploring a heavier and darker side. I hope to do another album, which will hopefully be more brutal than this one.”
The cover and title of the album pay tribute to the beautiful region Murray now calls home. The North-East of Victoria, Australia, known for its stunning landscapes, mountains, and wineries, inspired the album’s name. Murray chose to name it “Mt. Pilot” after seeing the turn-off sign for the mountain while driving on the highway to the nearest city.
“Mt. Pilot” is a testament to The Finch Cycle’s dedication to pushing musical boundaries and creating a deeply immersive experience for listeners. The album’s fusion of indie rock and post-rock elements creates a unique and captivating sound that transports audiences to a world of introspection and emotion.
