So nice we reviewed it twice. What a debut. This is so
refreshingly good. It is easily one of the best albums I have heard this year.
A voice that rivals Janis Joplin in places, and such well thought out lyrics
matched with such finesse to the music behind it to really hit the listener
hard. You can so easily put yourself in the place that the music is trying to
take you. I have very rarely had my imagination so effectively sparked by new
music in recent years. This is so good. What a travesty that I missed them at
Hellfest earlier this year.
It isn't just music. They've got stories. The antagonising, worn-out and
ultimately defeating journey that the protagonist of 'River' is led on is
perhaps the best example of this, and when listening to 'Astralplane' the
anguish and anger in the voice of Erin Larsson desperately wanting to be taken
ANYWHERE else is something I think anyone could relate to. Who doesn't crave for
that at some stage in their life? Very, very few of us I suspect.
'Jupiter' has a more psychedelic, early 70s funk feel to it. 'Gypsy' has a
similar vibe, just faster, but the lyrics are an interesting view into what the
essence of being a gypsy might be, and the fact that the stereotype or negative
connotations people attach to such a lifestyle don't matter. I have never heard
the phrase 'I don't give a damn' sang with such conviction before.
The guitar tones are very reminiscent of Peter Greene era Fleetwood Mac.
Particularly in the slower parts, and that's a lovely touch, but it's not to say
they're not being original. Blues Pills are, as I rarely have the pleasure of
saying, a band that know how to use their influences effectively to create a
unique sound. They don't copy - they use inspiration in the most creative way
possible and then hi-jack your emotions and imagination.
Outstanding.
