Following the buzz of their 2020 mixtape Breakfast, which hinted at their unique fusion of indie-rock and dance music, Porij emerged as a revelation to music lovers hungry for innovation. Teething does not disappoint.
Porij's journey has been one of gritty self-discovery, every setback and triumph etching their path toward maturity. Led by vocalist and keyboardist Scout "Eggy" Moore, alongside bassist James Middleton, guitarist Jacob Maguire, and drummer Nathan Carroll, the band's debut album, Teething, encapsulates their evolution and essence.
From supporting acts like Metronomy, Coldplay, and Friendly Fires to garnering critical acclaim from outlets like The Guardian, NME, and BBC 6 Music, Porij's ascent has been meteoric. Teething beckons listeners beyond the confines of dance music as a mere genre, inviting them into a transcendent realm where emotion supersedes analysis.
The band's genesis at The Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester brought together individuals steeped in diverse musical backgrounds. Moore's immersion in the SoundCloud scene collided with Middleton's penchant for bassline beats, a fusion reflected in their unexpected debut at a jazz club.
Immersing themselves in Manchester's pulsating house scene, Porij absorbed influences ranging from UK garage to deep house, shaping their distinct sonic palette. Their early releases, notably "Your Love" and "150" showcased a precociousness that belied their youth, setting the stage for their evolution.
However, turbulence lurked beneath the surface as two members departed in 2022, threatening to derail their momentum. With unwavering determination, Moore and Middleton recruited Maguire and Carroll, embarking on a whirlwind journey marked by festival gigs and newfound camaraderie.
Despite their newfound success, Porij remained true to their DIY ethos, crafting Teething in the confines of their bedrooms before enlisting the expertise of producer David Wrench. The result shows their growth, seamlessly blending pop sensibilities with their signature sound.
Tracks like "My Only Love" and "Stranger" offer glimpses into Moore's introspective journey, navigating themes of love, identity, and vulnerability. Through experimentation, Porij confronts the complexities of life, finding solace in the transformative power of music.
Meanwhile, "Marmite" and "Unpredictable" delve into the tumultuous nature of existence, embracing contradictions as catalysts for growth. On Teething, Porij confronts change head-on, embracing the scars of evolution as badges of honor in their ongoing quest for self-discovery.