The Vaccines’ third album English Graffiti finds the West London quartet in career best form. The quick and rough production of the band’s 2011 debut What Did You Expect From The Vaccines? earned them fans the world-over. A year later, their appropriately titled sophomore effort, Come of Age, saw them expanding as songwriters. English Graffiti is another big step forward for the band led by dual frontmen Justin Hayward-Young and Freddie Cowan.
Lead single and opening track Handsome is as brash as it is confident, conjuring up a buzzy, infectious appeal. Up next is the current single Dream Lover, which, despite having a rather different feel, is just as strong as the opener. The chorus is euphoric and instantly appealing, but the heavily reverberated riff is what really underpins this excellent tune.
Minimal Affection is another great song, subdued and perfectly balanced; 20/20 pulls back the pace and urgency to reveal some of the best lyrics you’ll hear all year; and (All Afternoon) In Love is a stunningly low key affair that perfectly encapsulates the realisation of new love.
Radio Bikini is the best track on the second half of the album, while Give Me A Sign again shows off The Vaccines’ ability to effortlessly merge their well-renowned power with slower tempos.
BY ALEXANDER CROWDEN
