New Zealand has been producing some fine rock music lately, and these guys, now London-based, are only adding to that vibe. Being a massive fan of Australasian alternative progressive and alternative rock, I had been aware of these guys for quite some time, but never really taken the time to have an in-depth listen, mainly due to the heaving, teetering piles of new CDs that seem to constantly await my attention.
Now, I’m very glad this album crossed my desk, so that situation could change. This is true ‘alternative’ rock – it is dark, heavy (for rock) and creates a pretty spine tingling atmosphere. At the same time, the songs are very strong and catchy, with excellent vocals and massive, fat grooves. It has very strong crossover appeal as well, fans of Foo Fighters, Incubus and the like will find something to like here (especially in a track like the excellent Transmission), as will fans who love The Butterfly Effect and Dead Letter Circus. The latter should check out the epic, 12-and-a-half minute closer Bought with Ignorance, Sold with Arrogance. It’s immense.
The sound, courtesy of Australia’s production genius Forrester Savell is lush, squeaky clean and extremely powerful, exactly what an album such as this needs, and the musicianship, whilst quite basic in the greater scheme of things, serves the song to perfection. Nothing superfluous, nothing overwrought, just streamlined and right on the money, allowing the songs to breathe. Yet more world class rock music from the land of Hobbits and long white clouds, Science and Survival is a clear winner.
BY ROD WHITFIELD
Best Track: Transmission
If You Like These, You’ll Love This: BELLUSIRA, THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT, FILTER
In A Word: Riveting
