Aircraft

Aircraft made a splash in the New York scene after releasing their debut full-length, Sonic Boom, in 2013. Now, two years later, the psych-pop outfit are gearing up to release its follow-up, 7 Gems from the Sparkling Void. The (you guessed it) seven-song collection showcases the four-piece's knack for introspective lyrics and spacy, art-rock instrumentation and today we're excited to give you a sneak peek by premiering "Dig a Little Deeper" off the EP. Stream the surf-tinged track above. - PureVolume

Even the title of Aircraft's new EP makes it sounds as though fantastical, psychedelic, shimmering, experimental pop magic lies within. The innovative Buffalo, New York quartet have impressed other high quality bands since their formation in 2012, landing support slots with Thee Oh Sees and Ty Segall amongst others. That alone could suggest that there's a garage-rock side to what they do as well, and the new EP's first taster, 'Stick', confirms that fully, taking the familiar 'Nuggets' style psych and garage blueprint and bringing it up to date.

Yeah, 'Stick' will still remind you of a few '60s groups, that's for sure. But the sprightly riff and insistent drumming add a liveliness that's much more modern, and when they break for the harmonious chorus it does sound like a gem from a sparkling void. A contagious chorus is never a bad way to engage listeners, so for an introduction to '7 Gems From The Sparking Void' (out later this week) this is about perfect. Lyrically there's a certain philosophical edge, so if you want to delve in further then the option's there, but as top, pure alternative guitar music goes, this won't fail you either way. - The Sound of Confusion

Their music is a bright and fun twist on '60s pop/surf music. The twist is thrown in by way of a somewhat psychedelic guitar sound that's warmed up by four part harmonies that beg for sing-back.

Their set was only about seven songs long, but it was solid all the way through. One highlight was the super catchy "Meteorite," a perfect showcase for those harmonies and hooks these guys clearly own. "Rising When I Fall" was another song which blends the fuzzy guitar, humming harmonies with "just enough" experimental tweaks of electronic samples to craft a fantastic tune but not come out as contrived. - In Your Speakers

With his electric rock and roll stage presence and eccentric hair style, Justin John Smith, lead guitarist and singer, suddenly took control of the crowd and set us all on a journey with his band, Aircraft, who hail from Buffalo, N.Y. Described on the band’s Facebook page as “Psychedelic Surf Pop,” they combined an exceptional broad range of music into one. With inspirations varying from Beethoven to Black Sabbath, every song was an unpredictable joy.

Each member of Aircraft added a soulful component to their music while combining to form a beautifully cohesive and synchronized sound. They clearly were experienced musicians who had been playing together for some time. To me, they stole the show. - New Paltz Oracle

"A melting pot of famous rock sounds, like that of Arcade Fire, Brand New, and MGMT mixed together.. Almost anyone with a voice can sing along." - 716 Local Music

AIRCRAFT, a band from Buffalo that is making their mark big-time on the indie music scene (tonight at 8pm and again Thursday at 9pm). - Rochester Democrat & Chronicle

#4. Aircraft - "Exist"
If there was an award for Buffalo Rookie Band of the Year, Aircraft would have it in the bag. In addition to landing some clutch opening slots for Cavemen, Thee Oh Sees, and Ty Segall, the Buffalo four piece psych rockers released a great 4 track demo, giving everyone a look at what the promising band may be capable of when their proper full length drops next year. - BuffaBlog

1. Aircraft - EP
For me there was no other choice. I see big things coming from Aircraft. They write incredibly catchy songs (see: Meteorite, Wilt) and walk that fine line between accessible and art-driven. It's a beautiful place to be. - Buffablog

"..the anthemic psychedelic majesty that is Aircraft—who are quickly proving to be Buffalo’s answer to mediocrity with hooks that come shaded in technicolor." - Artvoice

They have the four minute new wave pop song down pat, but because they're more psychedelic than strictly new wave, the pop songs come off explosively, big and shiny within that pleasingly tight song structure. Phoenix by way of early Pink Floyd with terrific vocal harmonies and a fun Talking Heads vibe, that's my initial take on Aircraft, and because I'll certainly be on the lookout for them this summer that's my first of many takes on this excellent up and coming band. Yes, it all works for Aircraft. - Buffablog