Album Review: My Lady Four - Everyone Pays The Gatekeeper

Concept albums at times can be based on odd, peculiar ideas, and My Lady Four's 'Everyone Pays The Gatekeeper' follows this logic. This 8 track release is based on the concept of the experiences of a gatekeeper who comes to find he's on trial for the crimes of another.

Opener '...And Suddenly I'm Somebody' is an upbeat, somewhat catchy introduction with the lyrics coming from the gatekeeper's perspective. Whilst 'Sometimes You Eat Bear...' and its follow up '...Sometimes The Bear Eats You', musically are straight out rock with the latter having a thumping bass and fierce guitar riffs. Lyrically they draw you into the record's storyline.

'Awfully Quiet For An Interrrogation' and 'At The Gate' sees the story and band slowing down and becoming more emotional, with a piano taking lead in both tracks with sweet sounding strings complimenting this well, alongside strong vocals that when combined, they create an eerie yet captivating atmosphere.

Next the band lighten up and become rocking with 'Jeykll, Meet Mr. Hyde', a track that sounds a lot like Funeral For A Friend but slightly lighter version. 'Your Idea of A Good Time' follows the same theme of thumping drums, strong blend of vocal harmonies and deep guitar riffs.

Closing track 'Even Apologies Have Enemies' starts off upbeat and then calms down to create a beautiful mix of male and female vocals with strings and a marching drum beat, rounding off the first chaper of this 2 part concept album well.

Despite the slightly odd concept; a story that gives the impression that is is set in medieval times, but is backed with My Lady Four's brand of alternative rock. Lyrically 'Everyone Pays The Gatekeeper' manages to connect the listener to the characters within the story, as they've written emotional-driven songs that captivates the listener and keeps them hooked. Whilst musically it is strong, yet at times you feel its been done.

Nevertheless My Lady Four's technique for storytelling is something to be admired, as well as ambitious.

3.5/5

'Everyone Pays The Gatekeeper' by My Lady Four is streaming in full on their myspace and will be on iTunes by August 11th.

Sean Reid