Anglo Ascension

posted in: Artist Features • Pop

When it comes to vocal capabilities, to a certain extent you’re either born with them or you’re not. Charlie Bernardo was blessed with an incredible voice”one that sounds like the product of English DNA. As lead singer of DC-based band The Sketches, Bernardo brings huge Brit-pop chops to the table. Strangers”not to get overly hyperbolic”is perfection. Bernardo’s intoxicating croon, a Lennon-like piano line and frayed guitar lashes combine for a lush, swooning melody. Somewhere the members of Keane are gnashing their teeth in envy. She Came & Went, with its cello moans and shaken percussion is superlative Brit folk. Secret Alphabets packs the theatrical punch of Queen on its airborne chorus, but begins with a rolling bass that leans more towards Beatles’ Come Together. The Sketches may wear their influences on their sleeve, but don’t worry too much about it. The visceral chills their music brings are entirely of their own design.