Category: Album Reviews

Whilst some may criticise the band for wearing their influences on their sleeves, the cohesion that they manage to achieve on each record is truly impressive. You can feel the love and passion that they put into each album and ‘Smitten’ is no different.

Pale Waves always appear in a constant state of evolution as they explore their creative abilities, taking elements from those influences and adding new layers with each new album. Again, for a band to hit this level of consistency out of the career gates is mightily impressive.

In many ways Pale Waves are something of a throwback, and again they’ve managed to create something which both old school indie pop fans and the new generation of music lover will be able to get behind.

Share this review on Social Media

Tags Album, Album Review, Music, Pale Waves, review, Smitten

Album Reviews

October Drift

Post author By fullpeltmusic
Post date September 25, 2024

Blame The Young

Follow us on Social Media

OCTOBER DRIFT – BLAME THE YOUNG – ALBUM REVIEW

October Drift released their debut album in January 2020… which historically wasn’t a great time for such a milestone event. Not deterred by this momentum killer, the group crafted what is a classic pandemic album, ‘I Don’t Belong Anywhere’, which captured many of the feelings we all felt at this time.

Now though with their third album, ‘Blame The Young’, the band have another opportunity to capitalise on their ever enhancing live reputation without any lingering covid hangovers in place. Indeed, this album resolutely throws of the shackles of loneliness and fear and explores what comes next.

Focusing on the strength found in a caring support network, ‘Blame The Young’ takes the listener on a ride of discovery and growth with the likes of ‘Demons’ and ‘Everybody Breaks’ showing the band at their emotive best.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR ‘Tyrannosaurus wreck’

October Drift – ‘Tyrannosaurus Wreck’

Sonically the album feels like a trip into the depths of the band’s creative library. There are some familiar classic reads, but as you journey further into the collection, you’ll find some more intense and interesting offerings which go to make the whole record even more rewarding the longer you spend with it.

It’s refreshing to see a band growing with each release whilst remaining true to themselves. This album is a celebration of the journey of life and those that help us to survive. As ever, October Drift manage to get you thinking, get you feeling and ultimately get you dancing!

Having survived through what are tough times for young, self-reliant bands, it’s a testament to the imagination of this special group that you feel that somehow the best is yet to come.

Share this review on Social Media

Tags Album, Album Review, Blame The Young, Music, October Drift, review

Album Reviews

The Meffs

Post author By fullpeltmusic
Post date September 18, 2024

What A Life

Follow us on Social Media

THE MEFFS – WHAT A LIFE – ALBUM REVIEw

The Meffs captured attention with their two ‘Broken Britain’ EP’s, which delivered a scathing indictment of modern life soundtracked by a blistering punk rock assault on the senses. Subsequently the duo has established their credentials with a constantly growing list of impressive live performances.

For their first full-length traditional album, ‘What A Life’, it probably shouldn’t be a surprise then that the duo are offering more of the same. Bad news for anybody hoping for a bloated prog-rock opera, but bliss for fans ready to double-down on their love of classic punk rock rowdiness!

Over the course of 33 fast paced minutes the band have managed to capture their raw live energy on record which is some achievement! Working again with Frank Turner on the album, together they’ve managed to give these songs a new shine which makes them sound ready for the larger audience that is sure to jump on board the good ship Meffs.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR ‘F S R F’

The Meffs – ‘F R S F’

From the cutting opener ‘Stamp It Out’ to the methodically heavy ‘What’, each track adds something important to the record, either through their crushing lyrical insights, their sonic exuberance or in most cases – both!

From the tongue in cheek to the brutally honest, the undertones of the record once again manage to perfectly capture the tone of the divided world whilst providing a call to arms to those who just want a fair crack at life.

That message of hope is of course the most important take away from this record… however recognition of the passion put into this album is also a significant note.

The final ringing out of the instruments at the end of ‘What’ is reminiscent of their riotous live shows and just as in that setting, leaves you wanting more of this musical shot of adrenaline!

Share this review on Social Media

Tags Album, Album Review, Music, review, The Meffs, What A Life

Album Reviews

Snow Patrol

Post author By fullpeltmusic
Post date September 14, 2024

The Forest Is The Path

Follow us on Social Media

SNOW PATROl – THE FOREST IS THE PATH – ALBUM REVIEW

When all is said and done, the story of Snow Patrol will certainly be one that music historians will examine in depth. From Britpop-era obscurity to Indie-landfill superstars, the band have endured ultimately due to their unparalleled ability to craft beautiful melodies that tug on your heartstrings.

New record ‘The Forest Is the Path’ is only their second collection of new material in the past thirteen years however! Greatest Hits and a reworked album have kept the band somewhat active in that time. But with previous admissions of writer’s block and the departure last year of longstanding members Paul Wilson and Jonny Quinn, fans may have been wondering whether the potential for a full-scale return to form was turning rather bleak.

With driving force Gary Lightbody still flanked by the incredibly talented Nathan Connolly and Johnny McDaid though, the group have now set about alleviating any of those fears.

Indeed, as you hit play and are greeted by the stunning ‘All’ and enormous ‘The Beginning’ and you instantly feel like you are curled up on the sofa with a warm blanket and cup of hot chocolate.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR ‘ALL’

Snow Patrol – ‘All’

Yes, these songs smell like home and as the album progresses you will feel increasingly comfortable in that familiar blanket. You might even sneak a cookie or two to accompany that drink as the rain lashes against your window and the open fire roars… you know the analogy I’m going for!

I suppose with this sense of familiarity you could argue that this is a safe return for the band, but then is anybody looking for Snow Patrol adopt electropop and release their version of ‘Brat’? No didn’t think so, and neither should they – this is simply Snow Patrol doing what they do best and it’s magnificent!

Their journey may not be the most glamourous or straightforward, you could say that the forest is their path! However it is that they’ve arrived at this point though they’ve found their way into British consciousness and on the evidence of this new release they aren’t going away just yet.

Share this review on Social Media

Tags Album, Album Review, Music, review, Snow Patrol, The Forest Is The Path

Album Reviews

Cassyette

Post author By fullpeltmusic
Post date September 12, 2024

This World Fucking Sucks

Follow us on Social Media

Cassyette, born Cassy Brooking, has certainly made her mark on the rock scene since emerging amidst the chaos of the pandemic. Indeed, given how time generally flies by, it feels like Cassyette has been around for a lot longer than that!

The long wait for her debut album is finally over however with ‘This World Fucking Sucks’ now released into this very sucky world! Whilst 2022’s ‘Sad Girl Mixtape’ had given a good first taste of where Cassyette was going, this full record nails her colours to the mast.

Yes, Cassyette is here to deliver ferocity and melody in equal measure and does so with this statement of intent that runs to fifteen emboldened tracks; some seven of which had already made their way into the world before release.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR ‘IPECAC’

Cassyette – ‘Ipecac’

There within lies is perhaps the only gripes, that there isn’t much to surprise on this record and that perhaps it would benefit from dropping a track or two despite there not being an inherently bad track present.

Those are only minor observations however and in the main taking this journey with Cassyette will only solidify your appreciation for an artist clearly born to do this. Be that screaming at the top of lungs on the likes of ‘Ipecac’ or serenading us with her dulcet tones on the delicate ‘Dear Sister’.

This is an album which is well worth your time and ultimately sets up this unique artist for the rest of her career, which you’d imagine will be a long and successful one on this evidence!

Share this review on Social Media

Tags Album, Album Review, Cassyette, Music, review, This World Fucking Sucks

Album Reviews

Delilah Bon

Post author By fullpeltmusic
Post date September 11, 2024

Evil, Hate Filled Female

Follow us on Social Media

DELILAH BON – EVIl, HATE FILLED FEMALE – ALBUM REVIEW

Delilah Bon emerged during the pandemic and quickly established herself as a voice for the voiceless, the marginalized and the mistreated. Now Bon unleashes new album, ‘Evil, Hate Filled Female’. Delightfully abrasive, this album will cause offence… because the world doesn’t like to be called out on their shit!

With lyricism as biting as prime Eminem, unwavering attitude and a modern rock fusion sound, this album is ready to punch you square in the face and dance on your quivering body. Titled after an absurd insult on social media, ‘Evil, Hate Filled Female’ is mastermind Lauren Tate fully embracing her vision for Delilah Bon.

Tate found Bon as she articulated in lyrical form her experience of abuse and inappropriate behaviour whilst fronting punk rockers Hands Off Gretel. The freedom that came with being truly independent has emboldened her creativity and Bon has extended beyond being just an outlet for Tate to express herself, indeed Delilah Bon is a symbol for anyone in need of a champion.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR ‘VOLATILE’

Delilah Bon – ‘Volatile’

This latest release pulls no punches and is packed with unfiltered social commentary which confronts many of societies archaic pre-conceptions. Given the irony involved in calling Bon an evil, hate filled female and the continued rise of ignorance and hatred in the world, there’s never been a better time for this anti-hero to rise up. As Bon says herself, “It’s about turning the tables on hate and reclaiming our power. We are truly in our villain era.”

As important as it is however to acknowledge the themes presented on this album, it would be disrespectful to not also acknowledge how incredibly catchy these songs are. Musically, Bon has excelled with this sonic smorgasbord of ferocious sounds. You can hear the passion put into this album and the results are powerful and innovative.

This album isn’t going to be for everyone. Indeed, many will hate it! So, just remember that if you’re offended by this record – that’s because it’s not for you… it’s about you!

Share our review on Social Media

Watch Delilah Bon on The Full Pelt Music Podcast!

The Full Pelt Music Podcast – Episode 31 – Delilah Bon

Tags Album, Album Review, Delilah Bon, Evil Hate Filled Female, Music, review

Album Reviews

Boston Manor

Post author By fullpeltmusic
Post date September 11, 2024

Sundiver

Follow us on Social Media

BOSTON MANOR – SUNDIVER – ALBUM REVIEW

Conceptually envisioned as a sequel of sorts to 2022’s ‘Datura’, Boston Manor have created a monster with their new album ‘Sundiver’. Designed to be the sunshine to the darkness of ‘Datura’, this new collection finds the group at perhaps their most ambitious.

That in itself is some statement to make because the band have always been driven by a desire to outdo themselves. Rarely are they found stood still with recent efforts ‘Desperate Times, Desperate Pleasures’ and ‘Datura’ expanding upon their signature sound with increasing nuance.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR ‘CONTAINER’

Boston Manor – ‘Container’

Thematically ‘Sundiver’ picks up where ‘Datura’ left off with the slow burning opening track aptly titled ‘Datura (Dawn)’. The album then kicks up a gear with three of the pre-release singles, ‘Container’, the Deftones echoing ‘Sliding Doors’ and the soaring ‘HEAT ME UP’.

Musically the record is slightly less foreboding than its predecessor, with the band aiming for more of a summertime aesthetic, without dropping the melancholic undertones. It’s fitting then that the record comes as summer segues into the auspices of autumn. You can feel the heat of the sun still, but you’ll need to wear a jacket!

The band find themselves on a real hot streak of releases and ‘Sundiver’ is more than capable of holding its own. The band have truly mastered how to write a banger as the kids would say, and you just know that these songs will go off live!

Share this review on Social Media

Tags Album, Album Review, Boston Manor, Container, Music, review

Album Reviews

Kid Bookie

Post author By fullpeltmusic
Post date September 11, 2024

Songs For The Living // Songs For The Dead

Follow us on Social Media

KID BOOKIE – SONGS FOR THE LIVING // SONGS FOR THE DEAD – ALBUM REVIEW

“Maybe it could potentially be a good statement of what rock music can be today”. Those are the words of Kid Bookie as we talk with the man himself for The Full Pelt Music Podcast. As a human being, Bookie is modest and grounded in his self-assessment, as an artist though he is anything but grounded.

Kid Bookie naturally elevates whatever he turns his hand to and as clichéd as it may be, he is groundbreaking. Since moving away from the music others expected him to make into making the music he wants to make, Kid Bookie has found out more about himself with each release.

As he has loosened the shackles of expectation, he has torn up the industry rule book and embraced the freedom that comes with a no f*cks given attitude. This shines through on his new album ‘Songs For The Living // Songs For The Dead’.

Having worked with a who’s who of modern rock producers across the ten tracks, it’s perhaps no surprise that there is an eclectic mix of genres and styles featured. Again, the rule book is thrown out the window when it comes to tracklist and structure. Conforming to any societal or industry norms certainly isn’t Bookie’s thing (not that normal is even a real thing), and that makes this record one of the most interesting and dynamic releases of the year.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR ‘AI (SAVE YOURSELF)’

Kid Bookie – ‘AI (Save Yourself)’

Check out our two Podcasts, with a new interview with Kid Bookie incoming!

‘AI (Save Yourself)’ is a great opener which is the perfect example of what new nu-metal should be. The fact that the track then gives way to an acoustic ballad is unique to say the least. But… rather than be a jarring transition, it offers the listener their first moment of intriguing revelation.

This isn’t a collection where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, no, instead this record flows like a ‘Now that’s what I call music’ compilation album. Fusing rock, metal, rap, hip-hop, pop-punk and so much more, ‘Songs For The Loving // Songs For The Dead’ simply defies genre. Despite this, Bookie’s vision brings an irregular cohesion to the album, with each track standing out for its own reason.

As you familiarise yourself with this magnificent collection, you’ll likely ask yourself why can’t all music be so boundless and exciting? You may therefore consider this an exceptional statement of what modern rock music can be! And yes, that is important and adds significance to this album, but above all else, this album is just so damn infectiously enjoyable.

Share this review on Social Media

Tags Album, Album Review, Kid Bookie, Music, review, Songs For The Dead, Songs For The Living

Album Reviews

Fontaines D.C.

Post author By fullpeltmusic
Post date August 30, 2024

Romance

Follow us on Social Media!

FONTAINES D.C. – ROMANCE – ALBUM REVIEW

If it wasn’t already clear that Fontaines D.C. are a band uninterested in standing still, then their fourth album ‘Romance’ leaves you in no doubt of the level of ambition that the group harbour.

That aspiration to explore their sound and bare their soul resonates throughout these eleven stunning tracks. Indeed, if you were to play ‘Romance’ back-to-back with their breakthrough debut collection, ‘Dogrel’, then you’d wonder what happened to a band lumped into the post-punk revolution.

Listen however to their entire back catalogue in sequence and you can sense the growing self-belief and determination to be something bigger, something better!

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR ‘FAVOURITE’

Fontaines D.C. – ‘Favourite’

‘Romance’ feels like a band establishing themselves on a higher level to their peers, from the pulsing opening title track to the indie anthem closer ‘Favourite’, this album is simply enthralling. The band are methodical in delivering a mesmerising blend of dystopian poetry and an explorative sonic haze.

You can just sense that some albums are special, and ‘Romance’ certainly falls into this category. In fact, each new Fontaines D.C. record has felt special!

The band has an incredible ability to capture magic and if they keep up the consistency shown in their formative years then they are going to be a force to be reckoned with for years to come!

Share this review on Social Media

Tags Album, Album Review, Fontaines D.C., Music, review, Romance

Album Reviews

AWOLNATION

Post author By fullpeltmusic
Post date August 28, 2024

The Phantom Five

Follow us on Social Media

‘The Phantom Five’ represents the fifth studio album from AWOLNATION and finds creative force Aaron Bruno in fine form. With their legacy already established, it’s time for them to spread their wings and enjoy the artistic freedom that comes when you reach this point in your career.

The record begins with the anthemic ‘Jump Sit Stand March’, which features guest vocals from Emily Armstrong of Dead Sara who combines to great effect with Bruno. The song instantly enthrals and sets the tone for what’s to come, which is an all-encompassing sonic exploration of the AWOLNATION sound.

A little bit of everything goes into these ten tracks with ‘Party People’, a fast-paced and playful pop rock number, before the lead single, the slow burning ‘Panoramic View’ then showcases Bruno at his soaring best. The Del the Funky Homosapian featuring ‘I Am Happy’ then changes speed with an uplifting beat that will get you moving.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR ‘PANORAMIC VIEW’

AWOLNATION – ‘Panoramic View’

Watch Episode 51 of The Full Pelt Music Podcast with guest AWOLNATION

The remaining tracks follow the recipe of mixing all aspects of the AWOLNATION sound with a sprinkle of fresh epicness. ‘The Phantom Five’ is sure to be a winner for fans old and new, and is right up there with the best of AWOLNATION.

‘Outta Here’ acts as the sublime album closer and finishes off what really is a perfectly rounded AWOLNATION record. With hints from Bruno that this could be their last album, you can’t help but feel it would be a great send-off, whilst also hoping that it isn’t!

Share our review on Social Media

The Full Pelt Music Podcast – Episode 51 – AWOLNATION