Single Review Round-Up: Deaf Havana, The Last Republic, The Eighties Matchbox B-Line Disaster, Straight Lines, Delta/Alaska and Kill Cassidy

Deaf Havana - Smiles All Round
Released on November 1st through A Wolf At Your Door Records.

After line-up changes which ultimately saw the band ditching the screamo vocals, James Veck-Gilodi takes on main vocal duties on a permanent basis and the resulting material is supeerb, as 'Smiles All Round' is a quick blast of melodic alt-rock brilliance. Storming guitars and pounding drums compliments Veck-Gilodi's clean vocals well, as the bands change in direction is much welcomed and holds a lot of promise.

4/5



The Last Republic - CCTV
Released on October 15th

Ahead of the release of their debut album, 'Parade', The Last Republic release 'CCTV', a thriving rock number backed by a superb string section and Jonnie Owen's high vocals. With its decent tempo and strong guitar work and structure, 'CCTV' leaves you interested in what else The Last Republic have to offer. Although on first listen, the lasting impression isn't quite there.

3/5


The Eighties Matchbox B-Line Disaster - So Long, Goodnight
Available now on Black Records.

The ever-haunting Eighties Matchbox B-Line Disaster return with 'So Long, Goodnight', a dark, intense single that slowly brews with Guy McKnight's dynamic vocals bringing about gothic-like imagery, that at times is quite uncomfortable but definitely impressionable.

3/5


Straight Lines - Say It For Your Sake
Available now on Xtra Mile

Straight Lines continue to push their 'Persistence In This Game' album with 'Say It For Your Sake', a thriving, bouncy rock number that highlights the bands attributes; a tight-knit unit with decent choruses that grow on every listen, and distinctive vocals from Tom Jenkins. Much like the album, Straight Lines produce a favourable sound, although it is one that could see them being grouped with numerous other UK bands at the moment. Nevertheless 'Say It For Your Sake' is a still strong showing from the Welsh four-piece.

3.5/5



Delta/Alaska - Start With A Cage
Released on November 1st through Walnut Tree Records

With influences in Minus the Bear and Les Savy Fav, Detla/Alaska's debut single 'Start With A Cage' is a promising slice of atmospheric rock with a subtle intense tone. Whilst the male-female vocal work comes off together well, whilst the additional hint of experimentation adds flavour and interest to the bands sound. It's a sound that is dominated by spiralling guitar lines and backed by an impressive structure. Whereas the b-side, 'Joanna' is equally as intriguing, with a more airy feel that leaves feeling somewhat captivated. I'll admit after hearing some of the bands other work on Bandcamp, for a first single I wouldn't have gone with 'Start With A Cage'. However the bands potential is still delivered in abundance here.

4/5

Kill Cassidy - 14:11/Everyone To The Dancemat
Available now on Sugar Shack Records

Bristol's Kill Cassidy bring an upbeat, atmospheric approach with this double A-side single. '14:11' is dominated by delayed guitars and pounding drums, with the former bringing an uplifting feel and blend in well with Tim Sensation's light vocals.

Whereas 'Everyone To The Dancemat' allows Sensation's harmonies take centre stage before the blast through a (slight)dance/pop-rock vibe. It all fits well together and is pretty favourable. Although at over four minutes, the track somewhat outstays its welcome but nevertheless Kill Cassidy is promising stuff.

3.5/5