Unsigned Album: 'Meat and Pie
Argument' – Instant Species
Displaying an adept grasp of
straight-up alt pop song writing as well as a willingness to push the boat out a
little from time to time, the fourth LP from Yorkshire quartet Instant Species
nevertheless remains a 'traditional' indie record. They may favour the same
black shirt n' tie combo as The Hives, but Instant Species are an altogether far
more conventional beast, with Rick Garnett's vocals reminiscent of Kingmaker's
Loz Hardy, frontman of the early 90s indie stalwarts. No bad thing, as there are
enough hook-laden Britpop-esque tunes to retain the interest throughout.
Vivacious opening trio 'Better With You', 'Failing to see' and 'the lady tennis
player' have the band recalling bits of Ash, Pulp and Supergrass. After the
seemingly obligatory slowies we're treated to a bit of sprightly reggae on
'Jamaica Park'
and edgy ska on 'The boy that doesn't know what's good for him.' Nothing
particularly groundbreaking, but those enjoy good old fashioned whistleable
indie tunes will find plenty to enjoy here.
6/10,
Matt Tomiak |
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