What's the difference between a band making use of their musical influences and blatant plagiarism? This question doesn't have a punch line; it's an issue that enveloped my thoughts as I listened to ‘Our Troubles End Tonight,' the debut album by new band .
comprises Edinburgh-born Gordon Graham and Brighton-born Ben Townsend. Following endless failure in various formations, the boys have got it together and found success and audience-acclamation in their new form.
When you listen to this record, you will be reminded of a thousand things. Each song sounds strangely familiar in a comforting coming-home sort of way. Think Bob Dylan and Nick Cave. Think Jim Morrison and Eddie Vedder. Surprisingly, think Elvis.
Highlights for me include ‘Leah,' psychedelic and reminiscent of The Doors and ‘Westwards We're Headed,' a Motown-style song that feels like a homage to the Drifters, ‘Save the Last Dance.'
Forget plagiarism though; disregard this thought completely, because this album really works. Rather than being a mere sum of (influence-led) parts, it feels like an eclectic and original piece of work that simply refers to other great work. Listening to this album feels a bit like putting on the pair of comfy boots you forgot you had (or some other tedious analogy).
Those of you out there with more mature musical tastes than my own will probably understand and enjoy this album even more than I have.
Rating: 4 / 5
Words By: Lucy Rumble
