Sticky Fingers’ third album is one that very nearly never happened. After a cancelled European tour, one band member in rehab, and another in a psych ward, it seemed as through a break-up was on the horizon. Luckily for the rest of us, the band got back in the studio to record Westway (The Glitter and The Slums), an album which has almost no trace of the troubles that nearly led to it never happening.
A very chill vibe permeates every tune, but never so chill that you can’t break out into a quick jive if you feel so inclined, and the odd upbeat track almost makes it hard not to. What makes Sticky Fingers different to your average indie rock group is that damn sexy synthesiser work that is in its finest form on this album. Giving every song a hip swaying edge is something that makes Sticky Fingers stand out from the crowd.
The synth and vocals work in excellent harmony, and added vocal effects are present on most tracks. Some parts tread the fine line between cool effects and being overproduced but never really cross it, which is good because it’s a trap so many other groups are falling freely into these days.
Westway (The Glitter and The Slums) is a good album from a band who’ve overcome quite a bit in order to still be together, let alone release solid work. A great choice for anyone who wants a chilled rock album with the option to dance (and potentially leave their friends behind). Hopefully the boys can stay out of trouble and continue their rise, as Westway is a great starting point.
BY NATHAN QUATTRUCCI
