Simon RushworthTwin Atlantic – Power (Virgin EMI)
Is the disingenuous title of Twin Atlantic’s latest record meant to be ironic?
Compared to the band’s super-charged previous work this is about as powerful as a pushchair.
In fact there are times when Power makes the Pet Shop Boys sound like Pantera.
And yet, in isolation, an ambitious record represents a rather entertaining listen.
It would be foolish to compare Twin Atlantic to the over-hyped indie rock hopefuls Rushonrock first witnessed live in 2011.
This is a very different band.
And these are completely different times.
Sure, Sam McTrusty still possesses the passionate refrain that made Twin Atlantic such an exciting prospect a decade ago.
And there is the odd riff that reminds die-hard fans of the band’s more brazen past.
But Barcelona and Novacaine lean more towards classic Depeche Mode than Biffy Clyro.
There’s a hint of The Killers on I Feel It Too – a fantastic slice of upbeat synth pop smothered in dreamy keys.
And if your 80s vinyl has been worn to within a millimetre of its life then Power provides a retro-fuelled alternative to that decade’s more melodic grooves.
Twin Atlantic used to be edgier than a flight of stairs.
And if those edges have been smoothed and the volume dialled down then that’s not to say this record lacks charm.
It’s a work of art rather than a masterwork. A bold rebranding without compromise.
Volcano’s eruption of emotion is capable of convincing the most disbelieving of cynics.
And Messiah’s massive Sisters Of Mercy-style soundscape is strangely soothing.
The Power is in the project. And the project is all-powerful.
Band Image By Katy Cummings