Ladytron – Sugar
I enjoyed Ladytrons sound a lot. They have been away for a while now and many wondered what direction they would take. H,ere on “Sugar” their comeback single they mix it up a bit. “Sugar” sounds more heavily influenced by 80s dance and electro. The song is very catchy and has a great sexy feel to it; It also has potential to become a huge crossover hit for the band. There will be many dancing once this gets played. It’s infectious and fun, dancey, poppy and you won’t be ashamed to own it.
By John Siwicki
The Magic Numbers – Forever Lost
The Magic Numbers have been tolling around for quite a bit now. Their first single was the limited run of “Hymn For Her” which was incredibly hard to get hold of. But with great word of mouth spreading fast and a growing fan base, they are sure to do well… and as a bonus, they have the tunes to back it up! This band is destined for big things. “Forever Lost” is their first proper full release. The bands members have influences ranging from The Mammas and The Papas and other folk acts. “Forever Lost” is a sweetsong and the best part is that you feel Romeo(singer, guitar) is in the room and singing you the song. The vocals from Michele and Angela really round out the tune and make it stick out. It’s a very lovely and charming track with a sound not to be missed out on. It’s a perfect record to fall asleep to, start your day with, well you get the idea….
By John Siwicki
Oasis – Lyla
It’s been over 2 years since Oasis have treated their fans to some new material (the last release being “Songbird” back in 2003). The anticipation from the bands’ loyal fanbase has more than likely put the cheeky Manchester lads under immense pressure… Can they possibly live up to their continued hype?
The answer is yes. Although the track isn’t necessarily groundbreaking, or too different to their previous efforts, “Lyla” is a strong return, and will certainly please their army of supporters. Liam’s trademark snarl, and in this case, his lyrical wizardry are on full view here along with Noel’s typical strutting guitars…. these guys know how to put a song together, and they ooze confidence (and let’s face it, quite a bit of arrogance) from every pore.
The song is what you’d describe as a grower… it’s not quite as immediate as some of their previous efforts, however the chorus is very catchy and sticks in your mind. (It will definitely have the crowds singing along at their shows later this year…) As always though, from the very start, you know it’s Oasis… they seem to have a particular style and they stick to it. Sometimes though, you would like them to try something drastically different… just once!Having said all of that, this track is bound to do well… If you’re partial to a bit of Manchester swagger this is for you . Lyla may not make Oasis any new fans, but it will certainly leave their current devotees aching for the full album.
By Hannah Bauji
Maximo Park – A Certain Trigger
Maximo Park has put out a few excellent singles but they have not generated the ridiculous hype that can kill bands. “A Certain Trigger” is a staggering and fun debut disc, the hype machine will be in full force and we will all fall victim to the Park.???
The album kicks off with “Signal and Sign” a quick little pop ditty with some keyboard sprinkled all over. “Apply Some Pressure” and “Graffiti” are future anthems, they perfect slices of indie and pop. I just hope we see them still together next year. “Graffiti” is simply addictive, I can’t get enough. “Postcard of A Painting” could very well be a future single. It’s saucy and has nice bop to it. “The Coast is Always Changing” shows the sweet and softer side to Maximo. The song deals with a love and being away from it. This one is brilliant, Paul Smith(vocals) sounds perfect. “The Night I Lost My Head” is a lot of fun. It short with some rather daft lyrics “why did we have to meet on the night I lost my head” its cheeky and good fun. “Acrobat” sees the boys switch the formula up a bit. It’s a much slower track and then a spoken word bit starts the song. It’s an interesting song and is their longest clocking in at almost five minutes. It shows the band have a great range. Paul sounds full of emotion, Lukas(keyboards) lays a down a deep and dense wall of sound. This one is very strong. “Kiss You Better” finish up things on a lighter note. It’s back to the fast quirky pop song.
This is an excellent debut album. The boys aren’t afraid to show there love for pop music. Some of these songs just yearn to be played on the radio, the vocals are strong and they have the tunes to set them away from the rest. It’s only a matter of time before they take over the world.
By John Siwicki