Under the Radar: Both Hands

Both Hands were formed when Hailey Beavis contacted Brian Pokora via social media to suggest a collaboration, after hearing his previous band had just split up. Although both were well-kent faces on the Edinburgh music scene they had not previously met, but a creative partnership soon blossomed. Pokora already had a collection of tracks written for which Beavis ended up writing lyrics and vocals, putting together enough songs for a debut gig at the Leith Depot.

Word swiftly spread and their second show was at the Howlin’ Fling shindig on the Isle of Eigg, organised by Lost Map Records, the label to which they are now signed. That was followed by festival slots at Kelburn Garden Party and Knockengorroch, while they continued to work on songs for their forthcoming album, Be Like A Mountain In A Moonlit Way.

These new tracks are based around retro synths and vocals, and the duo have managed to create a sound which is both original but nevertheless boasts an undefinable familiarity. Their single Lips Parted came out this week and Both Hands are set to play Cowgate Block Party in Edinburgh on 18 July and the Lost Map Commonwealth Games party at SWG3 in Glasgow on 31 July. The album is released on 18 September. See www.linktr.ee/bothhandsmusic

Olaf Furniss and Derick Mackinnon run music industry seminar and social night Born To Be Wide, see www.borntobewide.co.uk

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