Can we finally dispel the notion that all music from New Zealand is pastoral gentle sounding stuff that should ideally be on Sarah Records. Earlier in the week, we had the melodic Guitar Pop of Silk Cut, now we have the slightly noisier, anthemic Indie Rock from Coast Arcade.
Bella Bavin has a great set of pipes, but the quartet are the sum of their parts. Songs are wonderfully arranged, performed and produced. Many energetic, there is a reminder of Brit Pop from the likes of Sleeper and Elastica.
There is also a hint of Garbage, particularly on Afterthought, but that is without the show off fuzz and attitude of that particular band. They can also mix styles, heavier guitar with a Pop Rock vocal that joins together nicely.
The riffs resonate and the choruses are big leading to an ability to sing along whilst tapping your feet and at times shaking your fist. Hallway is an absolute gem of a song, you keep waiting for the I'll Meet You In The Hallway line.
The Intro on the opener, Kids, is a wonderful introduction to what you are going to hear, Bavin's vocal is spot on, restrained and affecting. Coast Arcade don't come up for air too often, but when they do on Week, they are just as interesting. Acetone may be the winner here, but the whole album is a joy.
It is also refreshing to hear a band rocking again. There is so much moodiness and breathy songs to bore you, it is nice to hear something more straight ahead. Great solos, great melody and a lead vocalist who completely engages. What's not to like?
You can listen to and buy the album here.
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Great review of a great album! Love Coast Arcade
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