The Scaramanga Six – Phantom Head (Wrath
Records)
LP/CD/DL
Out now
Not usually my thing isn’t modern rock, but I
always think everything deserves one listen.
I have to say I was pleasantly surprised with Phantom Head’, a
collection of twelve tracks which are underground rock, yes, but pretty
entertaining too. Based around brothers
Paul and Steven Morricone, they bring well-made melodies and screeches in a
variety of styles from pop to punk that often reminded me of New Model
Army. Along the way, they also made me
think of Ian McNabb/Icicle Works, particularly on opener, ‘I Will Crush Your
Heart’ which could have been quite easily lifted from their ‘Defeat Your Enemy’
album.
They’ve been around for about fifteen years and
have always released stuff on their own label, and, during that time have built
themselves a following and critical acclaim along the way. Such is their reputation that they have
managed to get legendary Stooges and Nirvana producer, Steve Albini, to
contribute to the album which was recorded live. Everything from their sessions in Chicago is
included here.
‘I Am The Rain’ has an anthemic chorus and the
addition of a second drummer on the album adds real potency. We have hints of gospel on the brilliant ‘The
Bristol Butcher’ which also has a hint of The Who’s ‘Pinball Wizard’, progressing
into Led Zeppelin (‘Whole Lotta Love’), with a little punk thrown in for good
measure. The diversity of the album is
such that it makes it very enjoyable and listenable.
The guitars are tight, the melodies are
memorable and effective and the production is spot-on. ‘Blunt Force Trauma’ is rockier still, but
still holds together a great with power.
Album highlight is ‘Twist The Knife’ which
it’s spoken vocal and explosive chorus reminiscent of Pixies, loose guitar and
striking bass, it’s a killer lyric too.
If you listen to no more of this album, then make sure you listen to
this track.
Closer, ‘The Stepford Bands’ is again a
lesson in songwriting. Opening with a
great melody and venturing into another roaring rock effort. A fitting end to a good solid album.
Oh, and it’s got a great album sleeve.
7.5/10
Published on Louder Than War 23/04/13 - http://louderthanwar.com/the-scaramanga-six-phanthom-head-album-review/
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