aaamusic | On 17, Jul 2011

This assertive debut album from the Buckinghamshire, UK alternative rock quintet was confidently self released in July, 2010 on their Live Forever label.

A year later, the band has re-packaged the critically acclaimed release, entitled ‘All Our Kings Are Dead: Gold Edition’.

 

It’s a  limited run re-issue, with a bonus DVD featuring a “Don’t Look Back, Just Keep Moving” documentary, three live acoustic sessions and three live videos from the Electric Ballroom, Camden. Vocalist Gustav Wood hopes this will tell their story over the last two years.

 

This is enthusiastic, strong, hard-rock and heavy metal influenced by melodic punk. To dedicated fans their style is instantly recognisable and appeals through its variety and contrast. The music simmers with aggression but keeps joyousness so the listener is at ease.

 

Sons Of Apathy is energetic metal you can sing along to, followed by the huge fast moving riffs of Crystal Clear and the explosive Meter & Verse.

 

Weight Of The World has a softer appeal but D.O.A. is unpredictable with unconnected riffs and group vocals. Stitches has a military marching drum line, solid riffs and guitar work, but Gustav Wood’s voice is sometimes submerged by the sound.

 

In Winter Kiss, pianos have been added for a dramatic gothic feel which may seem strange in the context of the rest of the album. Elements has a dynamic, exciting riff but might be better as an instrumental without so many different layers. After The War is relaxed and atmospheric, with good guitar work and strings.  Gustav Wood’s voice gives clarity to a hazy background.

 

Because of the mildness of the vocals on Endless Grey, it’s easy to forget how heavy the song sounds. The Gates has some powerful vocals and an inviting background piano whilst Beneath The Waves provides a dramatic ending to the album.

 

Presently the band have left for Karma Sound Studios in Bang Saray, Thailand to record the follow up to ‘All Our Kings Are Dead’, again with producer Dan Weller.

 

Author: Anthony Weightman