ManicMammy’s Blog

I love Johnny Marr. Well, ok, not really, but I do think he’s just brilliant on the guitar. I grew up on The Smiths and have found it increasingly difficult to find any music since that has come close to their music and lyrics. Anyhoo I digress. It was because of his involvement that I was looking forward to hearing this album. Hadn’t heard anything else about the band so I came to it without any preconceptions.

Initial reaction was one of disappointment. The vocals seemed to have no subtlety to them at all. All shouting. Ok, so theres plenty of raw energy there which is good. Gawd, I must be getting auld! But the music definitely had something and the more I’ve listened the more I like it. Its definitely a grower. My initial recoil from the harsh vocal style has subsided and I’ve noticed the songs where he sings rather than screeches.

“Dashboard” is the second track on the album and the one that grabbed my attention on first listen. Its very catchy, great guitars, range of vocals, fast paced beat. “Missed the boat”: I love its vocal harmonies and guitars.

“We’ve got everything” is the favourite of the 8 year old who blasts it out when we’re in the car. Its great, loud and what a better anthem for a young lad, who does believe he knows everything!

I like “little motel” as its a break in the speed and volume of the surrounding tracks. Its a change in pace, quieter, melodic and has more impact. Would have liked to hear more tracks like it.

“Spitting Venom” I love, as a mix starting quietly, building to a crescendo with great energy and then coming back down.

Tracks such as “March into the sea”, “Fly trapped in a jar”, ”education”,  do nothing for me.

The album ends with “invisible”, the music and energy of which I cannot fault. Brilliant, but again, the vocals just grate on me.

Overall, definitely worth a listen or 2 or 3….