Members
Select a Northern Picture Library band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Northern Picture Library is an English musical group rooted in the genres of dream pop, jangle pop, and shoegaze. Formed in 1993, the band emerged from the dissolution of the iconic Sarah Records act, The Field Mice. The core members include Robert Wratten (vocals, guitar), Annemari Davies (keyboards, vocals), and Mark Dobson (drums). Known for their ambient and atmospheric sound, Northern Picture Library explored more ethereal and trip-hop-infused soundscapes compared to their previous work. Their discography, including releases like the EP Love Song for the Dead Che and the album Alaska, showcases their ability to blend melodic pop with lush, immersive textures.
How to Sound Like Northern Picture Library
To approximate the sound of Northern Picture Library, musicians should focus on creating lush, ambient textures that emphasize both melody and atmosphere. The band's music is characterized by ethereal guitar tones that benefit from chorus and reverb effects, giving them a dreamy, expansive quality. Combining analog delay pedals with these effects can help in crafting the layered soundscapes that define their music. Synth pads and ambient keyboards play a crucial role in filling the sonic space, often providing a soft, enveloping backdrop. The rhythmic section, driven by subtle, understated drumming, allows the melodic elements to shine without being overpowered. By focusing on these elements, musicians can capture the serene yet emotionally evocative sound that Northern Picture Library is known for.
