WEST AVENUE-Loose Little Lies CD-EP

Debut offering from Glasgow band and if you want something of a comparison in Scottish unsigned terms, it's very much like a cross between early Val Verde and early Make Sparks. They have a set of great songs that are punchy yet have an almost laid-back early Dire Straits intensity to them, particularly evident on parts of “You're On My Mind”. For the first couple of tracks, guitars jangle, riff, fly and ring out as the songs, again particularly “You're On My Mind” are sung with a nasally twang that really fits, and a heady hook that hangs around for good measure. “The Dark Sea” opens like something off Val Verde's debut EP but rather than staying in Americana territory, chooses to power up a bit more and becomes this sizzling drive through solid heated guitar riffing, stumbling shuddering rhythm section work and the excellent nasally vocal, full of passion and energy. The song flies to a lofty height then drops back without the singer missing a trick as it all then gather strength once more and powers forward to breathtaking degree on what is a track that – in a good way – seems to last a lot longer than it's three and a half minutes would have you believe. “When The Truth Comes” is more relaxed but no less emotive, more guitars jangling and twanging away to delightful degree, the vocal full of feeling and the rhythm section suitably dynamic, on what is a great song that simply flows deliciously into your head and heart. “Deep Nothing” heats up the pace and intensity once again but still retains that sense of greatness as the song flies on waves of guitars jangling away in the background as a slice of mid-paced driving indie strength reveals a stirring vocal, brief harmonies, a high-flying chorus of sorts and a whole structure that twists and turns but never loses its way. Finally, there is “Tell It To My Heart” is more of an epic ballad that gradually lifts off into this huge sounding song where guitars ring out, the drums and bass provide the strong foundations as the vocals glide throughout on a song that truly takes your heart by storm. Overall, a seriously solid, very enjoyable, well played, sung and written and highly promising debut.

CD Reviews Main Page
Home Page
Scottish Unsigned Bands In Concert
Email Andy G