Good Shoes – Think Before You Speak (Brille Records) 26/03/2007

You can pretty much gauge what this album is going to be like from the unashamedly minimalist splendour of opening track “Nazarin”. Drawing from the obvious references of The Fall, The Cure and The Nightingales, Good Shoes then blister through the perfect pop of their recent single “The Photos On My Wall” before we are graced with the absolutely flawless big smoke paranoia of the brilliant “Morden”.

“All In My Head” and “Never Meant To Hurt You”, as you already know, are two more splendid singles filled with the kind of zip and vigour of any number of entries you would most likely find in one of John Peel’s Festive Fifty lists. The one thing that binds all the songs here together is that they’re as contagious as a particularly persistent gang of nits and this theme is continued even on the more subdued “Blue Eyes”, which would ironically recall The Wedding Present whether it had an identical title to Gedge’s song or not.

The feelgood nature of “Sophia” is a timely reminder that summer is well on its way, and if ever there’s something that cheers me up every year it’s the arrival of Mister Sunray. Well, that’s put me in a marvellous mood, so a slightly modified, rampant version of “We Are Not The Same” sounds even better this time around. Although you could argue that Good Shoes are not exactly saying anything with their music, sometimes it’s just great to hear a band who are so flagrantly romantic, and you just have to let the melodies hug your soul. And how they hug.

That’s not to say there is a lack of cynical observation on “Think Before You Speak” and the love/hate affair of “In The City” is testament to this before the unbridled apathy of “Things To Make And Do” forces the point still further.

You’ll be pleased to know that “Everybody’s Talking” is not yet another take on the Nilsson standard, but rather an alarmingly short track whose arrangement recalls Violent Femmes before “Ice Age” in turn brings to mind some of Terry Hall’s bitterest lyrics from The Specials’ classic debut album – particularly that of “Little Bitch” and “Stupid Marriage”.

The penny clicked at the end for me – Good Shoes have a whole host of songs that are what The Killers SHOULD have sounded like. I could never quite get my head around why “Hot Fuss” – which I always deemed a “slightly above average” recording – was held in such high esteem. If Brandon Flowers and co had not gone for such a “polished” sound, then they may have ended up with something like this excellent album, and nowhere is that more apparent than on “Wait”, the album’s finale.

All in all, this is a thoroughly absorbing album that demands little thought and suits practically any mood. Good Shoes? More like Great Boots. 9/10

Tone E

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The Scaramanaga Six - The Dance Of Death (Wrath) 12/03/2007

T: The Scaramanga Six are clearly one of the greatest unsung bands of all time. Let's face it, they've yet to release an album that is less than superb and if they carry on putting out such remarkable music, they ought to have statues of the band erected everywhere to commemorate their brilliance. It brings tears to my eyes that anyone can put a handful of albums full of such unbridled beauty and show no signs of letting up. Of course, the enormity of such singles as "Baggage", with such impassioned vigour, are just the tip of the iceberg. Elsewhere on the album you can taste the macabre, the mad and the mighty, as well as a mystical splendour that once again results in a wonderful album.

N: When The Scaramanga Six land on our desk, it's pretty certain what we are to expect, and this opinion has never altered. Like a rollercoaster, but one where the attraction has added that new section of track to confound the thrillseekers. This time round, the Six have plundered rock operas to add new twists and turns to the total package and leave us to emerge breathless from the listening booth. 10/10

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Various - Floorfillers Anthems (UMTV) 12/03/2007

It wasn't that it happened gradually, but a realisation suddenly dawned on me - compilations really are in some cases of relevance. Now I really hate those compilations (and we all know who they are) who shamelessly jump onto the wagon of reawakening memories of singles we wished had never been released in the first place. What's more putting together completely inappropriatly considered numbers, just because they once shared the same time in the charts.

Now what's all this got to do with the current release from Floorfillers..? Well nothing negative really, 'Anthems' the followup to last years 'Club Classics' is again chock full of those tunes the listener may've resigned to memories, but good ones at that. Well I had mentioned reawakening these memories in a negative light, but in the case of what's been compiled here these thankfully don't fit into this category, when from track one respected tunes simply ooze from what follows.

The Shamen head off this masterly 63 track, 3-disc compilation with the euphoric 'Ebenezer Good', a statement of the time this track was released and although not necessarily my favourite tune from the group, being the groups first and only #1 single in the UK, one that has earned its place here. But whereas some compilations do leave you feeling that the 'top slot' was all those responsible for compiling the running order were concerned with, here it seems the tune that played the main contributory factor (otherwise 2 Unlimited's 'No Limits' may've found itself here, and how awful would that've been!) and of course these were tunes that were born out of a place that was far more than just chart placings.

Alright we've asertained that not all of these tracks were #1's in their day, or that a chart placing was not the only consideration for memebership here, but anthems they truely are, how-a-bout 'Rhythm Is A Dancer', 'Theme From S Express', 'Gypsy Woman', 'Insomnia', 'Push The Feeling On', '(Mucho Mambo) Sway' and even the tune that has made it further than the dance floors and into our living rooms, whether we are 8 or 80, that's Paul Oakenfold's theme from 'Big Brother'. Whereas the afore mentioned tunes may well be percieved as "Dance Anthems", there are also some surprises in the form of Spin Doctors 'Two Princes', The Soup Dragons 'I'm Free' and Moloko's 'Sing It Back', as well as a few cheesey numbers from All Saints and Sugababes tossed in for good measure.

This does however suffer from the same ailment that all compilations can in the end suffer from and that's the consideration that as an album this can grow weary. Although filled with tunes that may've filled a place and time in many of our lives, back-to-back I found myself wanting more, but that's not to say I won't return to this album again, soon, it is an outfit that's easy to slip into. This music is like a drug, feeding the head to bursting and the body with energy, or the intent at least. From tunes that graced the early and mid 90's, to those considered "modern day classics" that may be found on Disc 3 of the set. This is an all encompassing collection worthy of note, with the one exception that if you are used to the extended mixes some of these fall short of this expectation, but don't listen to me, listen to the artists gathered here and make up your own minds. 8/10

Nick James

Available until the end of April 2007, we are running a competition for our readers to win a copy of this fantastic set, just click here to go to the link.

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Arcade Fire - Neon Bible (Sonovox) 05/03/2007

Not unfamilar with this band, I can't explain why it was I was wishing for this to fail, to fall flat on its face and prove the epitomy of that "difficult second album", but it didn't, living up to everything that might be expected of it. When 2 years ago, save a month, The Arcade Fire broght us their debut album, 'Funeral', Tone was quite emphatic and waxed lyical of the album's content, its presence - "...the clever presentation of the music and unusual rhythmic phrasing...", well when it comes to their follow-up, 'Neon Bible' you won't be disappointed.

The band have again stamped their mark on each and every one of its chapters, pulling you inder its spell as you slip further into the 11 track content, that again rings of what may be considered the influence of bands such as The Pixies, even The Polyphonic Spree as both of us had noted last time around, with bass heavy compositions and an ethereal air that lifts this above the average album.

Certainly not the average run of the mill affair, this whole album is as easy a medicine to take as any that may be offered to a child, not so much syrupy, but easy on the palate and like a narcotic will have you returning to the medicine cabinet to sample again and again, but leaving the CD on repeat will do just as well. No this really is quite a brilliant album, again!

The tracks that are presented here possess their own unique fashion. There is a dark Jesus And Mary Chainesque quality to certain tracks such as the opening 'Black Mirror', murky tunes, possessing a religion like the album's title track 'Neon Bible' and '(Antichrist Television Blues)'. But for me the tune I kept returning to was 'Windowsill', with its melody that reminded me of The Velvet Underground or Birdland and vocals that rang for me of Neil Young, with lyrics that pronounced over and over "...I don't want to live in my father's house no more...'. It was moments such as these that made this album a star turn and one I know I'll live with for years to come. 10/10

Nick James

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Charlotte Hatherley - The Deep Blue (Little Sister Records) 05/03/2007

T: After the pleasant surprise of the dreamy instrumental opener "Cousteau" and the charming "Be Thankful", it becomes apparent that Charlotte has gathered up all the bubblegum she had stuck all over her debut album "Grey Will Fade" and chucked the whole lot out of her bedroom window. "The Deep Blue" is a far more harmonious release, sounding often like you'd expect the Ronettes or the Crystals to have sounded if they'd been signed by 4AD. There's certainly a Phil Spectre "wall of sound" type of thing going on, and the majority of songs here are steeped in rich vocal harmonies. That's not to say Charlotte has abandoned all her pop nous - there are still many great punchy tunes here such as "Again" and the darkly brilliant "Behave", as well as Ms. Hatherley's personal attack on an older man she had an early sexual encounter with on the rather angry "Very Young". Watch out for our forthcoming interview with the sultry ex-Ash axewoman for more on that! Anyway, this is a very sexy album from woman who oozes sex from her fingertips. A full on sound, some beautiful arrangements and a barrel load of great songs.

N: Far less the "rock album" I might have expected, but to be honest, I can't recall her first, so maybe this has completely shot my benchmark. An album with rock 'n' roll pretences, but also one who's not afraid to experiment with the way an album should sound. Funnily enough, as track 4, "Again", started to play, this reawakened what I remember Charlotte Hatherley the artist as being, although that said, I don't think my benchmark had been far wrong. It does sound like we're singing from the same songsheet here. 8/10

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Beangrowers - Dance Dance Baby (Series 8) 05/03/2007

T: Although Beangrowers have been likened to Blondie and Joy Division, I can't think of anything except Sleeper when I hear them, perhaps with a more bang up to date production. Whilst the beefier numbers such as "You Are You Are" are effective enough, I can't help thinking that the slower ones sound like a bored Moloko. Relatively pleasant, just not quite enough there for me. I'm interested to see whether you agree, or whether you want to tie rocks to my feet and throw me into Wigston Swimming Pool...

N: Well I'll tie rocks aroud your bits anyway, just to film your reaction and put it on Youtube...

T: Ha! You'll never find string that's small enough. Oh...um..

N: ...concerning the Beangrowers, the question remains - are they punk, or are they indie? Music is certainly outwardly confident, where melodies flutter through numbes like a daydream...and I think I've just quoted Ride there...and I can't hold with your uncertainty. 7/10

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The Horrors - Strange House (Loog) 05/03/2007

T: Like the Dead Kennedys ripping the hair out of the Sisters Of Mercy, while Eighties Matchbox B-line Disaster applaud mischievously in the corner of the room, perhaps throwing bottles of their own piss at the chaotic scene unfolding before them. At other times, The Horrors reach the heady peak of "Tender Prey" era Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. "Draw Japan" even evokes fond memories of Joy Division's "Unknown Pleasures", albeit ten times darker. And that really IS dark. Of course, you can probably equate the poppier numbers such as the hit single "Gloves" to the more mainstream output of The Damned, and the whole trip is like one particularly ghoulish ride on the Ghost Train. Invigorating, exciting and explosive, The Horrors have released an album of top notch quality that's up with the best of 2007.

N: True to their name, The Horrors enter the stage that is their debut album like a black and white Bela Lugosi flick, Nosferatu flying into sight and scaring the bejeezus out of the audience. A latter day Damned, shades of Bauhaus but yet to perfect that Peter Murphy glare, "Gloves" certainly hinted at what was to come but the intensity of this twelve track was surely never fully appreciated until now. 9/10

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Mr. Hudson and the Library - A Tale Of Two Cities (Mercury) 05/03/2007

T: This is one of those prime examples of a band that clearly have their own sound and are very good at what they do, yet somehow I find them surprisingly banal. There's not a great deal of substance here, although "Brave The Cold" dispels that train of thought somewhat. It's just that too often the band reminds me of the Ordinary Boys. Now I'm going to contradict myself again by saying that I reckon this is an album that improves upon further listens, and I could actually see myself eventually embracing it, especially at those Neil Hannon like moments that crop up here and there. Shame this is my first listen, as while I'm lukewarm at present, I have a feeling it could get hotter...

N: Funnily enough, I commented regarding my feelings concerning the lack of integrity shown by Mashed's tunes, then I hear Mr. Hudson and the Library's "On The Street Where You Live" from "My Fair Lady". Whereas the formerly stated held no emotion, and ran through numbers with a cold breath on the listener's neck, this artist does so with emotion and originality. I love this whole album - it's warmth and in my case its instant reaction. Be they like The Ordinary Boys or not, this artist is a true original.

T: Oh alright then, I'll tentatively agree to an 8 and hope it does as I suggested. 8/10

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Various Artists - Mashed (EMI) 05/03/2007

T: You've probably already heard the top 20 hit that was "Horny As A Dandy", a hybrid of the Mousse T and Dandy Warhols singles respectively, and now here's an album full of Frankenstein's Monsters. Mark Vidler excels in crossbreeding the likes of David Bowie with Liberty X, Kylie Minogue with New Order (I'm sure you've heard that one), Franz Ferdinand with Malcolm McLaren and Peggy Lee with Iggy Pop amongst many others. It's innovative and puts a new ultra-dance feel on well renowned classics from yesteryear, but ultimately it has to be said that the original versions are far superior. That said, these tracks are well presented and effective - if only for their novelty value and for a short lived time.

N: This is a modern take on the eighties Starsound's "Stars On 45" and every bit as cheesy. Like the previously released artist, this will have an audience and then be promptly forgotten. I really can't see the artistic merit here. Go out and discover the original artists. 6/10

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Amos Lee - Supply And Demand (EMI) 05/03/2007

N: What was it we said about this artist? Were we right?

T: You mean that he's a woman's artist? I think we've been proved more than right, to be honest. Chances are, if you're of the fairer sex, you'll find this hugely appealing. If you're male, however, you'll probably think it's pleasant enough Radio Two fodder but won't be rushing out to the nearest record store for it. Or the nearest Asda, as I imagine that's where most people who find this kind of middle of the road easy listening stuff appealing do the majority of their shopping.

N: Joss Stone without the tits. 6/10

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Noisettes - What's The Time Mr Wolf (Vertigo) 05/02/2007

Bit late this one I'm afraid, but as debut albums go this has hair on its balls! Written and recorded over an 18 month period between London and L.A. (whilst the band were continually touring, playing festivals and wide awake on coke no doubt - that's the sugary sweet brown variety you understand). Now with such a hectic schedule (and teeth rotten to shit) there is one of 2 ways this album is going to have turned out, read on...

This whole affair is totally wired, with the band managing to bring to the album music full of the frantic pace under which they worked during this time. An album of true rock'n roll values, quite rightly pitched somewhere between the live energy of Marc Bolan and the raw presentation of Axl Rose. Lyrics are choice too, track 4 on the album; 'Sister Rosetta (Capture The Sprint)', a tune with the opening impact of Depeche Mode's 'Never Let Me Down Again', before seating itself in good ole' rock'n roll and featuring the line "...if I was you I'd use the loo before the long drive...", one which leaves you uncomfortable in your seat and nervous of what the band are to produce next!

Their guitarist has been quoted as describing this album as one which was "cathartic" and its stripped down performance, "deliberate", sure enough this is quite clear at any point throughout this album and it's almost visible that every chord, every line and note struck was done so with a nervous energy and immediate need to get these heard.

This is clearly a great album and its 10 song content one which tells a story of the time and place that they were recorded. I'll be honest, I don't like their name, sounds something like a sweet or a chocolate bar, but a retro trip is probably closer to the mark and after all - what's in a name? With glowing praise coming for this band from the likes of Bloc Party, Guillemots and Muse and touring commitments recently completed with the Muse and Baby Shambles, if the band carry on in this vein it's only success that beacons. 9/10

Nick James

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Kaiser Chiefs - Yours Truly, Angry Mob (b-unique/Polydor) 26/02/2007

N: A band of the moment, with this album eagerly awaited by media and public alike. Has all the hype been worthwhile, Tone?

T: Well with 2005's "Employmernt" Ricky Wilson and co. proved they were no slouches when it came to writing a killer hook or two. This time around the choruses are not quite so savagely infectious. This may be rewarding upon further spins and it feels like the boys have moved into big trousers. It's a bizarre coincidence that I've been playing the best of the 'Monochrome Set' in my car as the track 'Heat Dies Down' on this latest offering sounds alarmingly like 'Jet Set Junta'. Not a big problem admittedly as they were one of the most underrated bands of all time in my opinion. All in all a pretty confident, nice enough second album.

N: Certainly the "killer hooks" are somewhat lacking here, but as I listen further, this work appears to be a lot less like one of fashion and more like an album you would be rewarded for dipping into some 10 years down the line. The songwriting has certainly matured and isn't about 3-minute pop songs; seems funny that they released 'Ruby' as the first single to be taken from this album, and lead track too. Perhaps a bold move to mark the next phase in their career. 8/10

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