Crayola Lectern gears up for shows in Brighton and upcoming album

Crayola Lectern is gearing up for a series of live performances in Brighton and surrounding areas as they prepare to release their third album, Disasternoon. The Worthing-based psychedelic trio, consisting of Chris Anderson, Damo Waters, and Alistair Strachan, have blended elements of psychedelic folk and experimental pop to create what they refer to as “melanchodelia.”

Anderson, the frontman of Crayola Lectern, expressed his gratitude for the artwork of Disasternoon, which was provided by renowned artist Alfreda Benge. He praised Benge for her artistry, which has graced some of the best albums of the past 50 years, giving them character and warmth and enriching the avant-garde and psychedelic music scene in Britain.

The band’s upcoming performances include a show at The Prince Albert in Brighton on August 22 and another at The Rose Hill on September 27. The album Disasternoon, produced, recorded, and mixed by Chris Anderson at Ghosty Mill studio in Worthing, features a unique blend of theremins, cornets, and mellotrons layered beneath piano-driven melodies and poetic lyrics.

Thematically, Disasternoon delves into subjects like isolation, polarisation, friendship, mortality, and mental health, with Anderson stating that the songs are inspired by feelings of anger that he seeks to make beautiful. The album features standout tracks like Sad Cornetto, Aparty Days, and the title track Disasternoon, each offering a unique blend of melancholy-infused optimism and bold musical arrangements.

Additionally, Stars Over Louth, a jazz-tinged instrumental on the album, was inspired by a visit to Robert Wyatt and Alfreda Benge in Lincolnshire, an experience Anderson described as one of the best days of his life. The album also includes contributions from Christian ‘Bic’ Hayes and violinist Maria Marzaioli.

Crayola Lectern’s previous albums, The Fall and Rise Of… and Happy Endings, have garnered critical acclaim for their combination of humor, melancholy, and rich sonic textures. Tickets for the Brighton shows can be purchased through the respective venue websites, allowing fans to experience the unique and captivating sound of Crayola Lectern live on stage.