"What Do You Think About The Car?" - Declan McKenna, Album Review

Above: album artwork for "What Do You Think About The Car?"

On Friday 21st July, Declan McKenna released his much anticipated debut album, "What Do You Think About The Car?". With so much pressure to deliver after the incredible content already put out by him, there was much question as to whether McKenna would be able to succeed - it is without a doubt that he most certainly has.

An effervescent masterpiece of youth and current issues, the socially and politically driven LP has a sentimental nature to it that is simply a pleasure to listen to. In this album, McKenna deviated from what many 18-year-olds are likely to sing and write about. Instead, he discusses topics that he feels passionate about and is something that reflects the climate of today's society perfectly.

"What Do You Think About The Car?" resembles what teen angst's older sibling would be likely to sound like: a conversation about alienation and the feeling of being powerless to a mixture of electronic, pop and indie rock vibes. Both lyrically and musically, this album pushes the pre-established boundaries of music while simultaneously honouring those who inspire McKenna and being completely original and authentic. The moments of children's voices and home video at the beginning of the album contrast the vivid maturity of this artist and his art and add a level of sentimentality which is purely wondrous.

Politics. Social Laws. Religion. Nothing is out of bounds in this masterful creation which leaves so much excitement for what is to come next from Declan McKenna and music. For now, may McKenna bask in the sun of the success that this debut album is bound to be; what a perfect way to start. Watch this space for the future of music.

Rating: 9.5/10

You can get hold of Declan McKenna's album via his site declanmckenna.net or on Spotify here and iTunes here.

What do you think of this album? Why not comment below or on Twitter @TheRiffReviews or find TheRiffReviews on Instagram?

"The Amazons" - The Amazons, Album Review

Above: album artwork for "The Amazons" (@theamazons/Instagram)

On the 26th May, The Amazons released their self-titled debut album. The indie four piece of Berkshire released this LP via Fiction Records after just one EP in 2015, "Don't You Wanna".

This record borders the generic indie mould however, it adds a flavour of rock to it. "The Amazons" is packed with catchy guitar riffs and big notes. Although many of the tracks sound dangerously similar, it is an elevated record which is full of energy. Because of the similarity in the majority of the tracks and in some cases, a lack of lyrics, it makes the song "Palace" which is a stripped back piano ballad stand out and shine. It's understandable that the tracks sound similar - after all, they do need to be somewhat thematic, however, this feels clumsily put together and almost as though it is a string of good songs put together rather than an organically produced album.

The Amazons are undeniably a very talented group of musicians and it has to be said that the vocals of lead singer, Matt Thomson, are incredible. As well as this, each track sounds brilliant individually, but altogether, something is missing. This band attempt to fill the void with instruments and hooks but their is a definite sense of character missing from the album. That said, this album is a wonderful listen; full of upbeat tracks it's easy to dive into and enjoy without inhibition.

Rating: 6.5/10

You can get hold of the album via The Amazons' website here.

What do you think of the EP? Why not comment below or on Twitter @TheRiffReviews? Or you can check us out on Instagram at theriffreviews.

"End of All Time" - Fuzz Mutt, EP Review

Above: album artwork for "End of All Time" (Fuzz Mutt/bandcamp, artwork created by Nolan White)

The Washington 3-piece are at it again with the brand new EP, "End of All Time". The band who have been together since December 2015 are now all 18 and have begun to pursue music in a much more serious way than before.

"End of All Time" exudes flavours which is reminiscent to that of the grunge scene during the 90s. Fuzz Mutt are doing what is all too often not done: they are bringing together a heavy percussive sound with deeply melodic guitar parts as well as using meaningful lyrics. 

The band have recognised how useful social media is with regard to keeping in touch with other bands and, of course, fans. But what is clear from their work is that they are not falling into the trap of so-called 'selling out'. Fuzz Mutt's music is passionately spirited in an organic way which is incredibly rare to find. It seems that this band have found the perfect blend of all the factors to make something real which is entirely rich in wholehearted fervency without being pretentious in the slightest.

We, the listeners, are in luck because Fuzz Mutt's plans for the future are that they "just want to play a lot of shows and keep making music that [they] enjoy". The 3-piece are creating dynamic music which surpasses the quality of the vast majority of up-and-coming bands; and that is exactly what they are - up-and-coming, because this band are destined for very big things.

Rating: 8/10

You can get hold of the EP through bandcamp here and can check out their Twitter here and can catch them at their next show in Seattle on June 8th.

What do you think of the EP? Why not comment below or on Twitter @TheRiffReviews?

"Brazil" - Declan McKenna, Music Video Review

Above: still taken from 'Brazil' music video (@DeclanMcKenna/Twitter)

On April 13, 18-year-old Declan McKenna released the new music video for his single, 'Brazil' in anticipation for the release of his debut album, 'What Do You Think About The Car', which is due on July 21.

The music video oozes creativity and is very reminiscent of David Bowie's artsy flair. It is artificially idyllic; representing a false but exciting world detached from reality which, when paired with the song's compelling lyrics is powerful. 

Already, at just 18, McKenna clearly knows his direction and is in-touch with his creativity, something that is beginning to be lost from the music scene. The kooky video depicts a journey of discovery in a distant but all too familiar way. Almost like an homage to the talent of Bowie, the quirky video strengthens the greatness of McKenna as, not only a singer, but as an artist. 

Aesthetically, this video is perfected; the filming and visuals are impeccable and frame the song 'Brazil' perfectly, adding a wonderful touch without retracting anything from its magnificence.

Rating 8.5/10

You can watch the music video for 'Brazil' here and can pre-order Declan McKenna's debut album via his site here.

What do you think of this music video? Why not comment below or on Twitter @TheRiffReviews?

The Magic Gang Gig Review

Saturday May 6th saw the Brighton quartet play a show at Norwich's Waterfront Studio. The supporting acts were Paris Youth Foundation and Abattoir Blues from Liverpool and Brighton respectively.

The Magic Gang put on a lively show with a performance full of character and in their interactions with the crowd, the audience could grasp just how much fun they were having on stage. This transcended into their performance which is one of the key factors of a good show; although these guys took the term 'good' and threw it out of the window because it simply doesn't explain how brilliant they were.

Not only was their stage presence as excellent as that of bands who have been together for decades longer than them, but their talent was of an astronomical level. Without a bum note, chord or beat, the band's performance was slick and perfected. The Magic Gang gave the crowd everything they could've asked for and more; musically these four individuals are talented, but together there is something incredibly special that has occurred - they really do live up to their name.

Saturday's gig was faultless; the musical endeavours of the band have all paid off and their masterful stage presence made for one of the most fun gigs around. If ever you get the opportunity to see The Magic Gang, I urge you to go because chances are you won't get many more opportunities to see them in such intimate venues; this band are up-and-coming like there's no tomorrow and are surely destined for big things.

Did you see The Magic Gang on Saturday 6th May or on a different date? Why not comment below or on Twitter at @TheRiffReviews ?

More from The Magic Gang: 

• Twitter - @_TheMagicGang
• Facebook - The Magic Gang
• YouTube - The Magic Gang
• SoundCloud - The Magic Gang
• Spotify - The Magic Gang
• Instagram - @themagicgang

Please note: if you have any images from this show that we may use for this article, please contact us!

Real Friends Gig Review

On April 14, the American five-piece Real Friends played a gig at Epic Studios in Norwich as part of their tour, 'The Home Inside My Head'. The tour was named after their second studio album which was released May 27 of 2016. Real Friends put on an excellent show and had a set which had just the right blend of old and new songs.

The band opened with "Empty Picture Frames" which couldn't have been a better choice; it instantly got the crowd going and formed a connection between the band and audience. From the set they played on Friday, it is clear that Real Friends have refined their craft to put on an incredibly slick performance. Lead singer Lambton's vocals shone throughout the set and his charisma boosted the good performance to become a great one.

Musically, every aspect of the performance was sound and tight but there was a further element that the band nailed which was that of crowd interaction. Letting members of the audience sing into the microphone, encouraging crowd surfing and welcoming crowd surfers onto stage is to name a few of the outstanding aspects the band threw in. This made everything more personal and made the crowd feel welcomed and exuded class; perhaps it's less 'The Home Inside My Head' and more 'The Home Inside the Real Friends Crowd'.

Every second of the set that the Illinoisan band played was beyond all expectations and the intimate nature of the venue exemplified their talent. In the band, each member is as crucial and talented as the next and they have the tracks to prove it. The wonderful reaction of the audience to the band's performance proves how brilliant their gig was. 

Did you see Real Friends on Friday 14 April or on a different date? Why not comment below or on Twitter at @TheRiffReviews ?

More from Real Friends: 

• Twitter - @realfriendsband
• Facebook - Real Friends
• YouTube - realfriendsband
• Site - realfriendsband.com
• Instagram - @realfriendsband

Please note: if you have any images from this show that we may use for this article please contact us!

"Eternity, In Your Arms" - Creeper, Album Review

Above: album artwork for "Eternity, In Your Arms" (image from Twitter @creepercultuk)

Released on March 24th 2017, Creeper's debut studio album "Eternity, In Your Arms" came out via Roadrunner Records. The band are a six-piece from Southampton and have been together since 2014. Considered to be 'Horror Punk' this LP certainly reflects the essence of what the band is about. 

The intro of the opening track "Black Rain" is a spoken word verse which references an EP the band released prior to the album called "The Callous Heart". With the image of the band, the theme through each of the tracks on this album and the coordination to previous releases, it is clear that Creeper have created an identity within themselves as a band.

Musically, the album is strong. The vocals on every track are of a consistent standard and are met with powerful riffs and beats throughout. The percussion on "Hiding With Boys" is especially notable for it's uplifting foundations which provide the track with the base to be one to stand out on the album. On the song "Room 309", the bass shines through giving the track an edge which is missing slightly from some of the others. "Misery" is the first slower song on the album and it breaks it up nicely without being so different as to alter what the LP is about. "Crickets" is an acoustically slanted song which highlights some beautiful vocals as well as raw musical talent.

Thematically, the album is exactly what you may expect; it talks of broken love, the loss of innocence and, of course, the role society has on youth - it even makes a reference to Winona. But is there anything wrong with that? It simply shows that the band are delivering what fans likely want. Although they are covering bases which have been done, Creeper seem to manage it in an original and more modern way. The final track on the album "I Choose To Live" opens with the piano and finishes this debut LP in the perfect way. Its message is elevating suggesting that the speaker can overcome anything and is choosing light and positivity while keeping with the theme of the rest of the album.

Rating: 7.5/10

You can get a copy of "Eternity, In Your Arms" via the Roadrunner Records website here, on iTunes here and can listen on Spotify here.

What do you think of this album? Why not comment below or on Twitter @TheRiffReviews ?

SWMRS Gig Review, Supporting for ATL

Thursday 30th March saw SWMRS' return to Norwich; this time, opening for All Time Low. Second on the bill, the band played after Waterparks.

To kick things off, the band opened their set with "Palm Trees"; one which got the crowd going. SWMRS played 8 songs which included some of their biggest tunes such as "D'You Have a Car", "Miley" and finishing with "Figuring It Out". If you enjoy this band's recorded music, you will love their live show because they put on an excellent one.

Musically, the performance was incredibly slick and clearly well-rehearsed. From the way the four members played, it was evident that they know their craft masterfully. However, the performance of the band was far more than just their musical ability: they had the crowd in the palm of their hands and created an unmatchable atmosphere. Lead singer, Cole Becker, had the audience hanging onto his every word, every note. When they began to discuss political issues the crowd showed significant support; when they emphasised the power of Rock 'n' Roll, the crowd cheered; and when they played their, the crowd showed love and passion to notable amounts. 

Thursday's show showed that this band are something special: for a support act to be able to get the audience yearning for more the way SWMRS did is something that rarely happens; so skilled that an unknowing audience member could easily have felt that it was SWMRS who were headlining. Watching from the pit, or experiencing from the pit, was a truly wonderful affair and has left the feeling of wanting more.

If ever you get the chance to see this Oakland quartet perform, I urge you to take it because this is band who are heading in one way and that is up. Likeable, relatable, but most importantly talented; if you want to go to a gig and get the full package of a great sound, great songs and a great atmosphere, GO TO SEE SWMRS.

On the 30th, SWMRS killed it and surpassed any and all expectations, which were very high. This band are the future of music and are certainly one to watch.

Did you see SWMRS on Thursday 30th or on a different date? Why not comment below or on Twitter at @TheRiffReviews ?

More from SWMRS: 

• Twitter - @swmrs
• Facebook - SWMRS
• YouTube - SWMRS
• Site - swmrs.com
• Instagram - @swmrs

Please note: if you have any images from this show that we may use for this article please contact us!

"Better Off Without You" - Mallory Knox, Single Review

Above: album artwork for "Wired" the upcoming Mallory Knox album (@malloryknoxband/Instagram)

Taken from their forthcoming studio album "Wired", Mallory Knox have dropped a new track and hold nothing back. 

Referring to front man, Sam Douglas' personal experiences surrounding mental health issues, this song is incredibly powerful. Lyrically, it is moving and is an undeniably emotional listen. But "Better Off Without You" is more than that - it is a song with a very high quality of music too. The composition of instruments on this single is the perfect blend and exceeds the expectations you may hold in terms of this genre.

If this track is anything to go by, the anticipation for the album is deservedly high. The rawness and calibre of this song has left everyone eager to hear what their album will hold.

Rating: 8/10

You can pre-order "Wired" on iTunes and get two tracks immediately here or you can check out the audio for the track on YouTube here.

What do you think of this track? Why not comment below or on Twitter @TheRiffReviews ?

"I See You" - The xx, Album Review

Above: album artwork for "I See You" (The xx/Spotify)


January 13th saw the release of The xx's third studio alum, "I See You". The London based band dropped this indie pop record after four years since the release of their prior album "Coexist".

"I See You" shows an agreeable development from their previous releases and delivers all you could want from music of this genre. With relaxed vibes throughout, this album is lyrically very good with a musical force to match. The three-piece are an extremely talented trio and this album encompasses that very well; but there is little about the record which is particularly moving. That said, it has elements of emotion in just the right tones and doses to prevent the album from becoming a heavy listen.

This album progresses in exactly the way you would expect and is a great listen. The standout tracks include "Say Something Loving", "On Hold" and "Test Me". "On Hold" particularly emphasises the impressive vocal talents within this band.

Rating: 6.5/10

You can get hold of "I See You" via iTunes here and can listen on Spotify here.

What do you think of this album? Why not comment below or on Twitter @TheRiffReviews?

"Night People" - You Me At Six, Album Review

Above: album artwork for "Night People" (@youmeatsix/Twitter)

January 6 2017 saw the release of You Me At Six's fifth studio album, "Night People". Breaking away from the band's usual alternative rock sound, this album's heavier sound reflects how the band have grown.

This record is guitar-driven but the talent of drummer, David Flint, is clear as the LP has a very high-quality percussive element. Lyrically, this is an easy, fun listen but it's safe. Granted, it is a step away from the music You Me At Six normally make but it isn't trying anything new - they haven't branched out excessively. Perhaps it would have been nice to see them experiment a bit more on this album but the way they've evolved seems natural.

The track "Can't Hold Back" stands out for it's musical finesse. The composition of it is incredible; the instrumental side of this song is outstanding and the lyrics are just as good. You Me At Six wrote this song with Crispin Hunt. It's upbeat manner is followed by "Spell It Out" which is a track with a dramatic flair highlighting the always impressive vocals of front man Josh Franceschi.

Overall, "Night People" is an excellent album and is perfectly consistent with You Me At Six's previous releases. It would have been nice to see the band experiment a little more on this album but the three year wait was certainly worth it. 

Rating: 7/10

You can get hold of "Night People" via iTunes here and can listen on Spotify here. 

What do you think of this album? Why not comment below or on Twitter @TheRiffReviews?

"Youth is Only Ever Fun in Retrospect" - Sundara Karma, Album Review

Above: album artwork for "Youth is Only Ever Fun in Retrospect" (@sundarakarma/Instagram)

On January 6 2017, the Berkshire quartet Sundara Karma released their highly anticipated debut album. Prior to this, the indie band had released three EPs entitled "EP I" and "EP II" in 2015 and "Loveblood" in 2016.

This record is filled with catchy guitar riffs and melodic tunes from start to end. In this LP, Sundara Karma achieve the perfect blend of upbeat rhythms and powerful lyrics. What they lack in experience, Sundara Karma make up for in experimentalism and stepping out of the box which is always refreshing to see. "Youth is Only Ever Fun in Retrospect" is the type of album which makes you want to get up and dance but also makes you want to think: the way this four-piece have mastered it is something special. 

Standout tracks include "Vivienne", "Watching from Great Heights" and "Happy Family". The musical talent of the quartet is highlighted throughout the album with the vocals of lead singer, Oscar Pollock, in "The Night" shining through. This concluding track brings the album to the perfect end, finishing with just the right tone.

It's evident that these young musicians have significant amounts of talent and chemistry as they have produced such a high quality debut album. Sundara Karma are fresh on the scene and give off the impression that what they care about is making music - something we need more of in the industry. The combination of raw talent and diligence this band hold is exceptional. But this is just the beginning; the standard of this album leaves very high expectations and intrigue as to how further experience will dictate their sound. If they continue like this, big things are sure to come for Sundara Karma.

Rating: 8/10

You can get hold of Sundara Karma's album via iTunes here and can listen on Spotify here.

What do you think of this album? Why not comment below or on Twitter @TheRiffReviews ?