The Shop Window are a four-strong JanglePop/IndiePop guitar band from Maidstone, Kent, fronted by partners in crime, Carl Mann (Vocals/Guitars) and Simon ‘Syd’ Oxlee (Vocals/Keyboards). Completing the line up in the formidable rhythm section are Martin Corder (Bass) and Phil Elphee (Drums). Post Covid, live shows have included Paul Reeves on additional guitar, who now features as a full time member.

Carl and Syd’s journey began over two decades ago when they landed their first record deal in the mid-late 90s in previous project Westpier, label mates with Sleeper on Indolent Records (BMG). Once Westpier folded, Carl ended up depping on guitar for Sleeper and still does occasionally. He also ended up playing guitar (dep) for Kylie Minogue, for TV performances, gigs and a tour of Australia, and even co-wrote a track that ended up on a Kylie B-Side in 2000.

The band released several acclaimed singles during 2020/2021. Those singles were followed up with the critically acclaimed debut album ‘The State of Being Human’ in June 2021. So well was the album received by the indie music fraternity, that it featured in many end of year ‘Best Album of 2021’ lists. singles followed the debut album.

A 4 Letter Word is the follow up to The Shop Window’s debut album, written and recorded over a short space of time in 2021. Keen to strike while the iron was hot, Carl got the band into the studio to record as soon as the new songs were rehearsed to capture the buzz from the flurry of writing. Lyrically the album’s focus is about love and friendship which seemed to be on everyone’s minds coming out of the pandemic.

Across the ten tracks the band have grown in confidence; the jangly guitars and vocal harmonies are ever present but with renewed vigour all round. Label mate Beth Arzy (Jetstream Pony & The Luxembourg Signal) added backing vocals to four of the album’s tracks (Eyes Wide Shut/Dancing Light/Circles Go Round & Low).

The seventy-fifth release on Spinout Nuggets, this record will be available via the label, the band and all very good record outlets.

Line Up: –
Carl Mann – Vocals, Guitar
Simon ‘Syd’ Oxlee – Vocals, Keyboards
Martin Corder – Bass, Backing Vocals
Phil Elphee – Drums