The keen reader might remember a previous feature about Tabitha Zu, a nearly forgotten alternative rock outfit that enjoyed a wave of success in the early ‘90s. We particularly loved writing about the project and its reissues, as it felt like discovering an ancient musical treasure, it felt like stepping back in time into a vintage, gritty London. There’s probably a strong nostalgic factor at play here, perhaps even some anemoia (given that the author of this article was born after the fact). Yet, we can’t help ourselves, and we feel strongly drawn to Tabitha Zu’s music.
Following up on previous re-issue ‘On Reality’, ‘Heard It Before’ now provides insights into the group’s debut single, dating back to 1991. In it, we find a version of Tabitha Zu that feels raw and vivid, perhaps the band at their boldest. The complex web of guitars develops as an evocative yet hard-hitting new wave soundscape; distortions are not too heavy, and we love that. It’s the right balance between grittiness and melodism. Melanie Garside’s lead vocals have nothing to envy from more established acts of that era.
‘Heard It Before’ develops with a strong kinetic charge, especially when it comes to Garside’s catchy ‘stuttering’ in the chorus. While we now might look at it from a historical standpoint, willing to find meaning in it, it’s good to remember that this was a group of excited and passionate young folks, simply writing music that resonated with them. Alongside Garside, Tabitha Zu also featured John Hamilton on drums and Phil Stevenson on bass.
Recommended! Discover ‘Heard It Before’ now: