English Teacher – ‘This Could Be Texas’: “Fontaine’s Creative Freedom And Powerful Lyricism Is Unparalleled On This Album.”

Words: Keira Knox.

Following two years since the release of their EP “Polyawkward,” English Teacher have taken their already established sound to even greater heights with the release of their highly anticipated debut album, “This Could Be Texas.”

English Teacher are a band that has endless potential and has the ability to achieve and strive for whatever they desire, this LP demonstrates the band’s tireless work ethic and desire to make a lasting impact within the
industry, “This Could Be Texas” is the result of English Teacher’s labour-intensive efforts over the last few years.

The album delves deep into different musical ideas and styles. Ranging from the booming post-punk feel and heavy opening bass lines of “The World’s Biggest Paving Slab,” to the autotuned experimentalism of “Best Tears of Your Life,” and the piano-driven heartbreak of “You Blister My Paint”. If you are a fan of Wolf Alice, Radiohead and NewDad, then this
album is for you!

“Albatross” establishes English Teacher’s musical identity from the get-go. The song permeates sorrow, despite its light and airy feel. The band have recently performed a stunning rendition for Steve Lamacq’s Teatime Session at BBC Maida Vale Studios which is worth a listen. Front woman Lily Fontaine is simply incredible; her creative freedom and
powerful lyricism is unparalleled on this album and is clearly evidenced within this track.

The entire LP is a stunning representation of up-and-coming British Guitar music, with more than a nod to the heady days of 90’s indie. With powerful guitars on “Nearly Daffodils” and “R&B,” the band demonstrates their extraordinary musical prowess while creating instant indie anthems. Gentle piano and strings are used to stimulate Fontaine’s emotional meditations on much slower tracks, making it one of those albums that keeps you captivated from beginning to end.

A homage to Fontaine’s hometown of Leeds, “Albert Road” is sensitive, kind, and exploratory in all the correct ways. “Albert Road” is a thoughtful and understated song that effectively showcases Lily Fontaine’s talent as a performer. It is one of their greatest songs
to date and a personal favourite of the album for me.

“This Could Be Texas” is daring and ardent. With the success of their debut album, English Teacher have defied expectations and left their own post-punk mark on the music business. With tour dates later in the year, the band definitely has huge things ahead of them, and their
success is well-deserved.