Album review: The Smith Westerns – Dye It Blonde
Since they released their debut album to rave reviews back in 2009 the Smith Westerns have been going from strength to strength, building not only a significant fan base but huge levels of anticipation for this, their second album. And the anticipation is not without reason. From the minute album opener ‘Weekend’ bounced out of the speakers and filled the room with its gorgeous, catchy melodies and dreamy vocals my foot was tapping, my head bobbing and I was totally and utterly spellbound!
The Smith Westerns have clearly spent their summers raiding their parent’s record collections as the songs have a strong seventies feel to them. Both David Bowie and T-Rex play a part in shaping their sound, but there’s a bigger influence at play: John Lennon. At times you could almost be forgiven for thinking you’re listening to some long lost recordings from Lennon’s last sessions, especially in the vocals. That’s not to suggest the Smith Westerns are some kind of tribute act though, far from it. They’ve taken those influences and created an album of absolutely gorgeous, fresh, distinctive and brilliantly crafted pop songs out of them. Highlights include the singles ‘Weekend’ and ‘All Die Young’ and the wonderfully jangly ‘Dance Away’ but all ten songs are pure gold. I’m pretty sure my Beatles loving dad would like this, but then I can’t imagine anybody not liking it. What a great start to 2011! 9/10
Mark Cousens
Out January 18th on Fat Possum
No related posts.
