Sometimes discovering a band takes a bit of luck. The lineup of Left of the Dial is perfect for that, though it’s easy to get lost in a swamp of incredible acts. A stray thumb while scrolling led me to Shaking Hand who had no songs released yet, but a bio referencing American Analog Set, Tortoise, and Yo La Tengo was enough to hook me instantly. After some will-they-won’t-they moments, I finally saw them on October 24 in a Rotterdam library of all places. On stage: a Manchester-based power trio with just one single out, balancing restraint and intensity, with beautiful bass and guitar interplay—never a note too many. They give just enough, while hinting at much more beneath the surface. Their self-titled debut album, released earlier this year, stretches over 42 minutes and connects those influences with bands like Women and Palm. Now they’re on their first European tour, celebrating with a cover of The Shining by Badly Drawn Boy—a surprise I didn’t see coming, but one I’m glad for. Somewhere halfway through, their van pulls into our garage and they play our basement. If there’s one show I’m truly excited about this year, it’s this one. | Hugo

Shaking Hand | Bandcamp