| Swallow | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Camberwell, London, England |
| Genres | Shoegazing, dream pop |
| Years active | 1990–1994 |
| Labels | 4AD Rough Trade |
| Associated acts | Into Paradise |
| Website | http://busygoingcrazy.com/ |
| Past members | |
| Mike Mason Louise Trehy |
|
Swallow were the British-based duo of Mike Mason and Louise Trehy.[1] Signed to 4AD, they only released one studio album and one special remix collection before leaving the label. They moved on to Rough Trade Records for a further EP before they disbanded.
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Mike Mason had previously played keyboards in Into Paradise, while Louise Trehy had founded record label Setanta with Keith Cullen. Mike Mason had also directed and produced promotional video for Spacemen 3.[1] They were signed by 4AD after sending a demo to the label.[1] The band released their debut album Blow in July 1992. Initially compared with Cocteau Twins and My Bloody Valentine,[1][2] the band remixed the Blow album to break down the John Fryer production, creating the limited edition follow-up release Blowback.[3] After relationships with 4AD broke down, Swallow began writing and recording at home. A newly-funded Rough Trade records released the four track EP Hush, which included a cover of Steve Miller's "Dear Mary".[3] Around the time of the EP's release in 1994, Swallow briefly toured with Mazzy Star.
In the middle of recording their second full-length album, Rough Trade lost their funding, and Swallow's recording efforts were in tatters. By this point, Mike Mason and Louise Trehy's relationship ended, and Swallow quietly disbanded.
Louise Trehy left the music industry altogether, but Mike Mason continues with musical endeavours. Currently, Mason works with music, film and photography , and has directed music videos for Spacemen 3, Spiritualized, Slowdive, and The Mekons. Some of Mason's other music projects include Cowboy Racer, which features Marijne van der Vlugt from Salad, Writing and producing with artists Lettie, Jessie Grace, Peter Murphy (Bauhaus), Dalis Car album 2 with Mick Karn
A collection of home recordings, titled Soft, was released digitally in May 2009.
Compilations: Swallow tracks also appear on: Volume compilation Joyride (4AD) film soundtrack album 13 year itch 4AD compilation