Assorted Track Reviews

(Thanks to the good people at PURE:FM who asked me to review these)


Art Brut - Pump Up The Volume
This is the opening track from these slightly peculiar yet somewhat unique London art-punks' second album It's A Bit Complicated is released to coincide with their current UK Tour. But to be honest, while Argos' lyrics still as biting and chock full of mock-irony, this song is no "Emily Kane". While lead single "Nag Nag Nag Nag" expanded on the already well-defined sound of Bang Bang Rock and Roll, this single barely rises to the lowest ebbs of their debut LP. Although, this is arguably more due to the overall standard of their debut, which would be the best place to start for those new to Art Brut.

EDIT: 22/02/08: apparently EMI released this without telling the band. Whoops. Link

"Pump Up The Volume" was released on 11th February via Mute and is taken from the album "It's A Bit Complicated", which is out now.
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XX Teens - How To Reduce The Chances Of Being A Terror Victim
This mock public service announcement, which sounds dangerously familiar to the old Nuclear Safety videos, consists of semi-serious advice soberly spoken over a dancey repeating drum beat and TV Themetune guitars that seem to both mock and elevate the subject matter. With no discernible chorus and a simple soliloquy of everyday advice, this song is a refreshing twist on the "possible breakthrough single" and makes them stand head and shoulders above the rest. This is especially true for me, as none of their previous work really attracted my attention. They already have a healthy following and should be dropping their debut album sometime towards the end of the year.

Released 25th February via Mute.
Myspace