Dan Dudek-Brown, the Bristol-based dynamo known as Macatier, has just dropped his latest offering, the four-track EP, 'Shooting Season', out now via Futile Records. For a decade, Macatier has been a quietly powerful force in the UK's grassroots music scene, earning his stripes through a fierce DIY ethic and a relentless touring schedule that has seen him support indie stalwarts like Saves the Day and Brand New.
His sound is a compelling melting pot, taking the acoustic honesty of Ben Howard, injecting the storytelling swagger of Jamie T, and adding the anthemic energy of The Gaslight Anthem. It's a blend that's raw, unfiltered, and deeply felt. Since his 2012 debut 'A Year From Now', Macatier has been steadily honing this unique voice across a string of acclaimed releases, from 2014’s emotionally resonant 'This Boat Is Definitely Sinking' to 2020's solidifying 'Native Noise'. More recently, 2023's 'Dark Patterns' saw him successfully branch out into moodier, more electronic textures—a sign that this artist isn't afraid to evolve.
'Shooting Season', following the momentum of recent singles 'Fade Away' and 'Slow Motions', captures Macatier at his most dynamic. The EP is a journey that balances personal, introspective moments with explosive, wall-of-sound rock, exploring big themes like isolation, the pull of travel, and the fragility of the world around us.
The tracklist, which includes ‘Fade Away’, ‘Slow Motions’, ‘Hanoi’, and the standout ‘Wolves’, showcases his mastery of blending post-punk with indie rock sensibilities. It's the closing track, 'Wolves', that is truly resonating with early listeners. It’s a masterclass in tension building, starting with a quiet, almost cautious synth layer before slowly gathering momentum and erupting into a glorious, guitar-driven torrent of sound. It's Macatier proving once again that he can handle both the whisper and the roar.
With 'Shooting Season', Macatier delivers on the promise of his past while boldly pushing his heartfelt, homegrown sound into new, exciting territory. It’s a compelling listen from a musician who is clearly more concerned with genuine artistry than chasing trends. This isn't just DIY; it's essential listening.
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