aaamusic | On 06, Sep 2010

Annuals’ second European release Count The Rings is the indie album fans have been waiting for – from the moment vocalist Adam Baker’s voice fills your ears, you know you’re in for a great listen. The ridiculously catchy opener Eyes In The Darkness sets the stage for what essentially is a perfect example of pop rock and experimentalism coming together in harmony. Baker’s vocals are smooth without seeming generic, effortlessly adapting from song to song, and given the album’s range, this is no small feat. None of the tracks are simply one sound – Loxstep, for instance, begins life as a straightforward, fairly laid back track. Don’t get too used to it though; it quickly speeds up into an energetic, sometimes frenzied electronic beat, somewhat in contrast to Baker’s vocals, which remain steadily calm throughout. It’s this kind of innovative approach that separates Count The Rings from other albums of its kind. Here you’ll find elements of folk, ballads, rock n roll and pop, and all with an edge of experimentalism (the somewhat weird Turncloaking being an apt example). Annuals are both challenging and enjoyable to listen to – they’ll keep you on your toes, but only ever in a good way.

Author: Katharine Sparks