Scarlet's Pocket EP

The Scarlet's Pocket EP has one phrase written all over it, metaphorically if not literally- that is: “radio-friendly.” It reminds one of an Englishman attempting to “do” Fran Healy of Travis supported by a politer version of Nickelback…whilst ripping off the likes of Coldplay, Embrace, Keane- in fact every Q-hyped band of the last 5 years. The production should be commended as the singer Scott does display some real emotion in his voice and the band at least sound human. Swamp Donkey is the stand-out track here with a riff to match the Stone Roses' fine ‘One Love' but save for that this band will divide critics and fans. If you read Q and slavishly buy what they order you to, like Coldplay, then you will open your arms to this band like an aunt to her long-lost nephew. If you don't, you will bottle them constantly at Reading/Leeds, accusing them of being “crap.” It's not so much crap as soulless. 2.5/5

Lunatic Fringe