The Rumble Strips - No Soul/Motorcycle

Listening to this band is like stepping into a speia-tinted golden era of breeches, solid friendships and nimble boys full of vigour and spirit. It's what you'd imagine a classic seaside postcard to sound like, which is perhaps an analogoy not entirely fabircated, since these four young men orignate from Devon. Opener "No Soul" immediately draws binds itself to your ears, with singer Charles Waller's strong, full voice soaring above a powerful trumpet and saxophone, before the song launches into a jaunty and interestingly layered and good-natured lament. There is an urgency in the way the way Charles leaves plenty of room for the building brass section of the band, bringing together also fast drumming and nifty guitar work for the close in this slightly brief but enjoyable song. Second track "Motorcycle" is a more subdued affair, with atmosphere centered around the moody and rich tones of Charles's voice. The ever-present trumpet adds to a feeling of wistfulness of times long gone. Again, well-worn and passionate rhythms prevail, with the guitar and bass played down in a harmonious and dreamy but not quite melancholy song.

Steph Potter