Single Review Round-Up: Frank Turner, Attack! Attack!, Pendulum, Advantage, Idiot Pilot and More
Frank Turner - IsabelReleased on April 5th on Xtra Mile Recordings
Words by Sean Reid
You can't help but love Frank Turner; hard working, a brilliant song writer and constantly giving a hundred and ten percent. 'Isabel' is the latest single from last year's 'Poetry Of The Dead' and one that is passionate, charming and overall leaves you smiling. Complimented by a pounding piano and lively drums, Turner's sincere ode to someone special surely means his star will continue to rise. Great stuff.
4/5
Attack! Attack! - Not AfraidReleased on May 3rd through Atticus Black
Words by Sean Reid
Welsh band Attack! Attack! give us a sneak peak of their forthcoming 2nd album with 'Not Afraid', a thumping, punchy number that is straight to the point with an additional chorus, that quickly grows on you. Add to this a positive lyrical message and you're left with high hopes for the bands imminent UK shows and new album.
4/5
Pendulum - WatercolourReleased on May 3rd
Words by Sean Reid
Penduluem are back with more of the same drum n bass-led numbers that saw the band breakthrough with 2008's 'In Silico'. 'Watercolour' sounds hectic, and too busy at first but thankfully the band momentarily calm things down and allow Rob Swire's voice to take lead. Despite this the bands overall sound is not to my personal taste but credit has to be given to the bands for what they do.
3/5
Advantage - The Beat (Get Up!)/Wait, Is This Love?Words by Sean Reid
Ska-based dance punks Advantage give us a brilliant lesson in ska-punk with this double A-side single. 'The Beat (Get Up!)' is everything you'd expect from a band like this; a bouncing beat, stabbing brass parts and energetic vocals that manage to stand out, despite the bands music thriving in the back.
Whilst 'Wait, Is This Love?' at first seems to continue the feel-good momentum, lyrically the band are sincere which adds another element to their sound. Musically, the brass parts take a back seat, which compliments the overall tone. On the whole this double A-side will keep up the bands momentum, which was first seen last year on 'Future Echoes'.
3.5/5
Jimmy & The Sounds - SoundsReleased on April 26th on New Blood
Words by Sean Reid
Middlesbrough's Jimmy and The Sounds show off a radio-friendly indie sound with its catchy chorus albeit a simple one; "This is not a disco, its only music, only music we move to". Nevertheless its basic tempo and overall approach is somehow favourable.
Whilst b-side 'The Light' shows the band have more depth, with strings adding an extra element but unfortunately the final impression you're left is one that sounds like a poor cross between Snow Patrol, Scouting For Girls and Editors.
2/5
Dirty Weekend - TimeReleased on May 3rd on From Teeside with Love
Words by Sean Reid
With a name like Dirty Weekend, you'd think this Northern four-piece were rawkus punk rock group. However they're probably the complete other. Instead you get a charming dose of indie with a subtle dark tone, as 'Time' is quickly forgettable and does fail to spark off much of a reaction.
However the b-side 'I Am Shamed' is intriguing, with its subtle 80's tone with keyboards, plucky guitar and high vocal harmony.
2/5
Ganglians – Candy Girl Released on April 12th on Souterrain Transmissions
Words by Margarita Morales
Not your typical modern rock sound, Ganglians take it back a few decades to the '60's with their surf-pop sound. The Sacremento, California band maintain a minimalist, relaxed sound on “Candy Girl,” a sweet ditty about a guy liking a girl. “I can't seem to shut myself up about this girl named Candy Girl” starts the song.
The song maintains a consistent sound through that thought simple is a short song that you can whistle along to. The harmonies are nice, while the lyrics are cute and honest. If you're into that mellow, surf sound ala The Beach Boys, then take a listen to this sweet tune.
3.5/5
Idiot Pilot - The Tail Of A Jet Black SwanAvailable through www.idiotpilot.com
Words by Margarita Morales
It's not everyday you hear a band sing about "The Tail of a Jet Black Swan." But Idiot Pilot do on their latest electronica/rock song. The Bellingham, Washington duo primarily utilize samples and bass to achieve a sound that is dancey, but lyrically doesn't make much sense.
The sultry vocals contrasting with screamy vocals that switch between Michael Harris and Daniel Anderson. The abrupt shift from singing to a scream is done in random fashion that makes this song lack. Yes, it starts with potential but misplaced screams bring this song down. I appreciate the band's attempt to be interesting, but the duo sounds like they are trying too hard with this single.
2.5/5
Broken City Skyline - City LightsWords by Margarita Morales
With a strong driving piano, “City Lights” is a sweet tune that one can get mesmerized in. “Tonight is all we have,” reminds singer Dewi Bowen. The melodies and steady piano dominate the song, but the guitar sounds great, as well. The band have large melodies that sounds like it would radiate well live.
The band features the Bowen brothers (Alun, Dewi, and Marc) who together with friend Danni provide a pleasant, yet upbeat song that maintains a consistent sound. In the end, the song comes together nicely. This Bridgend based band have that piano-rock sound that's undeniably good, if you like Coldplay.
4.5/5
