You know a band means business when the first two songs are completely instrumental and blown out of almost epic proportions, before they sit down and get back to writing Emmy-award winning songs. Unfortunately, they would probably fail, but they come darn close to it.

As stated, the first two songs break into an eclectic barrage of electronic of pure harmonic melodies and bursting guitar effects that could deafen an ear. This is by no means a bad thing, as ‘Hot Tent Blues’ and  ‘Broken’ are really well done. Catchy and effective, the songs put you on a high as the band adds lyrics to the songs…

Theres something familiar with the lead singer, mind you. Alex Kapranos would have been proud, but thankfully this band isnt a Franz Ferdinand clone, the electronica synths and the deep, dark, brooding riffs would deter anyone from making that comparison. ‘Space and the Woods’ is calling out to be noticed, as his vocals blissfully slide in between the hectic arrangements consuming the song. Some may think its over the top, but this song suits well.  ‘The Bears are Coming’ sounds like a Kings of Leon song, and I’m not trying to make comparisons again, but it does smell a bit fishy. Its still a great song that anyone can pick up and listen to instantly.

The album hits a grey spot next though, as ‘Random Firl’ and ‘Heartbeat’ sound like an end-of-album filler, but thankfully it does pick up. ‘Whitesnake’ will no doubt be in the indie clubs in the coming months, its insanely catchy guitar lifts combined with some of the most melodramatic synths makes for a winner. ‘VW’ reverts back to an instrumental barrage with rapid pace before its climaxes to the next song, ‘Focker’, which would make early Hot Chip proud. The final three songs do a decent job wrapping it up, nothing spectacular with some frenzied drumming and guitar heavy indie songs. Done before, but it stands up above the rest – just.

All in all, its a decent debut album, that many a band would be proud of, a lot of inspiration has been taken from some newer indie and electronica bands, and combines it into an all round winner.

7/10