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"We love Christmas; it's such a special time of year. But let's face it—it's not special for everyone," say Desert Kites. Their new Christmas single dives deep into the bittersweet reality of the festive season, offering a raw and honest perspective.
The song, born in the isolation of 2020's lockdown Christmas, has been years in the making. "This year, with everything happening—the cost-of-living crisis, the war in Ukraine, and the turmoil in the Middle East—we felt it would hit home for a lot of people," the band explains.
Not your typical holiday jingle, this alternative track isn't anti-Christmas but a reflection of hope and struggle. "We genuinely believe this could be one of the best Christmas songs written in the last 10 years," they add.
Brace yourself for a Christmas song that truly resonates with the times. 🎄
—Shaleph O’Neill
Desert Kites, hailing from Dundee, is an alternative rock band that intricately weaves together the sonic influences of 90s grunge and indie rock. Their musical palette also incorporates hints of shoegaze and pays homage to the timeless sounds of classic and prog rock. The essence of their songs mirrors the diverse tapestry of life – sometimes brimming with anger, other times soaked in sadness, and occasionally draped in indifference, yet consistently poetic.
Opting for imagery over a linear narrative, Desert Kites crafts lyrical montages that offer unique perspectives into the human experience. These poetic expressions are skillfully woven into solid melodic structures, creating a distinctive musical identity.
Born out of the tumultuous period of lockdown in 2020, Desert Kites emerged when singer/songwriter and guitarist Shaleph O’Neill (known for his contributions to Nonstopcamels, Pigpen, Think Tank, and The Zephyrs) rediscovered his passion for the guitar after a hiatus of almost two decades. Seeking refuge from the challenges of home life during the pandemic, Shaleph embarked on solitary rehearsals at the S2K studios in Dundee.
As lockdown restrictions eased, Shaleph enlisted the talents of drummer Michael Szeremet (formerly of Blackjacket, Frown, and Boy Afraid). Their collaboration, coupled with the engineering and bass guitar expertise of Stuart Hanna, marked the genesis of Desert Kites. The journey commenced with the recording of their debut single, "Coming Home to You," in the autumn of 2021. Desert Kites encapsulates a revitalized musical spirit, born from the challenges of the times, and promises a unique blend of emotive storytelling within a framework of captivating melodies.
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