This Scottish band’s sound is immediate with uptempo drums and guitars racing us to chorus. Instruments are tempered by the thin yet cool voice of Sam McTrusty which aims for a compromise between pop rock and indie rock.
For the first three songs, that middle ground is a tough place to be because distortion prevents chart-topping whilst the many hooks would fail to pierce the veil of underground integrity. It’s not an admonishment, simply good songs daring to miss the full potential of possible, divergent futures. They, like much of the album are good in the moment but would tire on repeat. However, second single, ‘Free’, aims and achieves an Americanized Billboard radio vibe that fans of Jimmy Eat World and Crash Car Burn would be proud of. ‘Make a Beast of Myself’ carries a similar vibe except that easing back on the throttle allows it to soar. I also love the concept for the video.
Despite virtues in the band’s energy, they’re more interesting in their slower moments. ‘Yes, I Was Drunk’ is damn passionate. Accompanied by beautiful build-up, it’s the albums outstanding moment and shows what they are truly capable of. ‘Crash Land’ is as stereotypical as a ballad can get so opt for ‘Wonder Sleeps Here’ for charm. ‘Serious Underground Dance Vibes’ is gorgeous, a post rock explosion for a mission to outer space.
After the ups and downs, is TWIN ATLANTIC’s Free worth buying? For sure.
As a bonus, check this out:
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