Does anyone here know of the Cambridge-based band Akira?
Akira are a three-piece band that (rumour, and their website have it) got together after a major automobile accident, and have since been known for their live performances in their favourite nightclubs in Shoreditch, London. These preformances are usually headlined: "Akira Presents...", and they are also free, but the band usually accepts donations from devoted regulars.
I happen to like Akira's approach. They are basically the subtle and minimalist chords and sounds of Mogwai mixed with the enthusiasm and pace of Bloc Party. They are often compared to Bloc Party in this respect, but BP usually just gets on my nerves, while Akira does something I like better.
Akira produced and distributed their CDs themselves, and most of them only have two tracks. To this end, you probably won't find anything by Akira at your record store, but much of their discography is available for streaming/download on their website:
http://www.akiraband.com. Their CDs are available only by sending your cheques directly to the band, so I probably won't be getting their stuff just yet, but I am content with what is available online.
Listen to some of the music, and post your thoughts here.
