Released - 17 Jun 2013
Label - So Recordings
From the outset, this Leeds based alt rock trio blast into a classic number that really sets the scene for the remainder of the album.
I first came across these guys in Exeter a couple of years ago at The Cavern, they had just travelled back from a festival in America (maybe SXSW?) and were all jet lagged and tetchy, they still managed to play a blinding set that blew the audience away.
Recorded by the band's frontman Matt Bigland, at the Courtyard Studios in Oxfordshire with Ian Davenport (who worked with Band Of Skulls), the sound has matured, the production is a little more polished from their 2010 offering (Growing Pains) although it maintains a tinge of rawness that keeps it grounded.
Highlights of the album for me include the driving power of ‘Arizona Waiting’, the gentler approach to ‘Derail’ and the use of non distorted guitar in ‘The Way We Came’ that really sets it aside from their heavier offerings.
I was surprised to see that some reviewers mentioned that the new record has not progressed from their previous offering and whilst I sort of agree, I would say that they have struck an even balance, fusing early 90’s grunge and garage rock which never fails to disappoint.
With their ever-increasing army of loyal followers and electrifying live shows, these guys have a neon future ahead of them. Where do they go from here? Well, it would be good to see them expand into new territory but on the other hand, if it ain’t broke….don’t fix it!
★★★★
Tracklisting
1.ARIZONA WAITING
2.DERAIL
3.PENINSULA
4.HEATHER
5.SUMMER GURL
6.WHITE T-SHIRT AND JEANS
7.THE WAY WE CAME
8.DRAW A LINE
9.START AGAIN
10.LIP HOOK KISS
11.NATURE NURTURE
