London-based psychedelic rock band Club Kuru sit on the softer side of the genre, backed by pristine production and lush melodic hooks.

Giving In
Founded in 2012 as a solo project for classically trained pianist-turned-producer Laurie Erskine, he was looking to transition away from the London jazz scene, which was relatively quiet at the time. After a few solo releases, including the 2015 EP Layla, he decided to incorporate other musicians; Laurence Hammerton auditioned for him in 2016, sparking a fruitful creative partnership. Now a duo, Club Kuru set up shop at a recording/production space in Manor House, North London, and before long their shared space was knocked down for redevelopment purposes, prompting the duo to move in together in South London. After signing to Dog Holiday Records, they released their first EP, 2017's Waiting in the Corner, preceding their debut full-length, 2018's Giving In. Although the album was entirely self-produced and self-recorded, they enlisted further musicians to tour the record, including bassist Fergus Ireland. A second album, Meet Your Maker, appeared in 2019.

In 2024 Club Kuru is set to captivate audiences once again with their new album, Before The World, marking a triumphant return after a five-year hiatus.

Their single “Gone Like A Flower” reintroduced fans to their unique sound, and now, with Before The World, Club Kuru promises a deeply personal and emotionally charged journey through themes of life, death and existential reflection.

Before The World was recorded live to tape, capturing the raw, emotive performances of Erskine and his bandmates.

This approach has given the album a fresh, organic feel, departing from the synth-heavy style of their earlier releases.

Collaborating with esteemed musicians from South East London, including Fergus Ireland on bass, Artie Zaitz and Marcus Preastgarrd on guitars, Lydia Kitto on backing vocals, and Fabio de Oliviera on drums, Erskine has crafted a sound that is both reflective and expansive.

The album’s lead single, “Who Am I”, delves into themes of self-doubt and existential terror, setting the tone for an introspective yet hopeful collection of songs.

With Before The World, Club Kuru reaffirms their place in the psych rock scene, offering listeners a richly textured and profoundly human musical experience.


Biography by Liam Martin for ALLMUSIC
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