Stereophonics – Dakota
Stereophonics are one of those bands you either really love or loathe. After a very rough year off the scene, they sacked their drummer and found a replacement. On “Dakota” the boys seem to have gotten that bite back. The killer epic hook and that Kelly Jones croon drags you right in. The boys get a little electro and don’t really sound themselves almost. But their winning formula is still there. This is a quality tune.
By John Siwicki
22-20s – Such A Fool
It seems like this song has been around for forever. Its going on two years they have been playing this one. I’m sure they want to move on as well. But, it’s back again and it still sounds impressive. “Such A Fool” is a full on bluesy three minutes that never lets up. Martin’s raspy delivery fits perfectly behind the guitars and that dirty keyboard sound. This band just demands attention and they are even better live. Also, the B-Side is a remix of Hold On by Spacemen keep on out for it. “Such A Fool” is a fierce track but did we really need it re-released.
By John Siwicki
The Kills – No Wow
The Kills seem to be a band that is best in small doses. Now, don’t get me wrong “No Wow” has some nice tunes but after a while it all seems to start to sound the same. “Good Ones” and “Love Is A Deserter” are strong more upbeat songs that have great potential when they hit the listeners. But by the time you get to “I Hate The Way You Love” you start to get bored and want reach for the tracklisting to make sure its not the same as a previous song that has just been played. “Ticket Man” is a nice change and good way to change directions. This is a simple little ditty t hat doesn’t have that heavy dark riffs that clogs the LP. Besides a few songs there isn’t much here.
By John Siwicki
Maximo Park – Apply Some Pressure
Apply Some Pressure by up and coming band Maximo Park is a very happy upbeat song. It has a fast tempo and some loud guitars throughout and sounds like it has come from a band that has been around for years. Nice to hear a fast song at this time of year with Summer fading, takes you of the festivals and the memories. The song reminds me of Franz Ferdinand but I think this is better than a lot their songs, it has the same “get up and dance” attitude that they have. Not the most original song in the world but definetly worth a listen and a good dance to!
By Helen Daw