This British band formed out of the ashes of Joanna Gruesome, which is such a great name, sadly, they abandoned it, but the rollicking indie rock they jangle into is highlighted by the emotive croon of the singer. Are the Smiths an influence? Yes. Does the singer sound like Morrissey? No. His voice is a lighter more delicate plea than the more resonant voice of Morrissey, though the delicate quiver found here is unique and helps give them more of their own identity. The second song finds his vocal performance not as a song, but it still works well enough as fragility is their thing.
"I Don't Know How it Works" has a more upbeat feel that reminds me more of the Replacements. There is a more punk feel to the title track. The lighter and higher vocals work well on this one. There is a more angular Gang of Four like groove to "Sniveller", though it is much more melodic. "Duped" has more of a 90s college radio feel, which works really well, and the vocals begin to settle in well to the songs. The hooks start coming at all the right times on the chorus, as the verses stay in steady motion.
Sometimes the jangle has more of an early R.E.M feel to it, which works for me as I prefer that period from the band. "Round the Bend" has a more manic energy to it. Lyrically it is one of the album's more interesting songs. The last song finds the vocals taking on a more Xiu Xiu like desperation. The vocals grow on me and their singer is versatile in his expression, more than his range, but it works for what is happening here. I will give this album a 9.5.
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