First single taken from the album will be released at the beginning of April. ‘The devil is alive and living in DC’, is the album’s only real opportunity to rock out and is a catchy and surprisingly soulful track which really gives drummer, John Miller the chance to show us what he’s made of. However, this track isn’t reflective of the rest of the album which tends to be more restful, sit in a hammock on a summer’s day-type of melodic rock. Helme’s vocals are really put to task with ‘Only myself to blame’ and he comes up smelling of roses. I’m sure this track’s anthemic proportions will play a blinder with a live crowd; classic Helme chorus action coupled with a carefully crafted solo form guitarist Chris Farrell makes this one of my favourites. Tracks like ‘ California’ and ‘Pure’ keep that soulful vibe running through this northern rock’n’roll like a dose of salts. At times almost trippy in their urgency and even positively tear-jerking in their beauty, they put a great lid on this album. Not the most revolutionary, different or original album that’s ever been created but a great listen and if you are a fan of Helme’s its a definite must have to check out the progression of the sound. 7/10 http://www.theyards.org Jemma Volp-Fletcher |