W & I: Joseph Murphy

From the streets of Sheffield, down to London, five-piece indie newcomers Cafe Totem show off the richness and warmth akin to their name in their debut single.

Headlining Sheffield’s famous Yellow Arch Studios, the band dropped in to Shoreditch for Far East Festival, sharing their brilliant first release, Beside You.

A stark mix of jazz, funk and rock elements, wrapped in singer Peter Hayes’ rounded, soulful vocals, it's clear this sets the tone for Cafe Totem’s career. Backed by melodies pulled from the 70s, played by band producer and saxophonist Christian Snelgrove, the band generates a refreshing smoothness that contrasts with the typical indie sound of Sheffield, without losing its roots.

Drummer Josh Golledge drew in on initial thoughts following a lauded appearance on BBC Introducing, citing inspiration from Motown funk and classic rock in his snare and tom-focused breakdowns, enveloped by rhythm-guitarist Bruce Featherstone’s cutting stabs and soft leads from guitarist Andy Blanchard.

“We were born out of the ashes of our other group, really, it’s just a fresh perspective and a new attitude”, said Hayes, “The single is a passion project which we hope to keep burning for the future.”

Structurally, the song follows the lyrics, a driving longing for romance and need. But the song, like most of Cafe Totem’s original live catalogue, cites an otherworldly inspiration.

“We find the best music comes from unknown places. Places of lost cities of gold and spacey atmospheres”, Golledge said, known in the Northern scene for his upbeat and fresh inspiration style. The band cites Aussie rock like Sticky Fingers and Ocean Alley as key influences.

The world of Cafe Totem is just beginning to form, but it is definitely one to watch.