Ambershift - "Ambershift"

by JD
(Newcastle)

This is possibly one of the best debut albums i have heard in my life.

I had heard of Ambershift as they used to play my local pub in Newcastle (as they hail from the North-East) and was always impressed with their energetic and edgy live shows, but this album is even better.

It has depth, hunger, agility and is totally original in its approach. One can hear echos of 'The Police', 'We are Scientists' and even even a little of 'The Who', particularly in the bass work.

The guitar grunts through every track like a possessed beast while the keys glow round the edges leaving the vocals to soar through the center of each track.

The drums pound like something from a John Bonham dream gig in rock heaven- I love this drummer. Straight down the line with a little fill here and there to liven things up- just where it is needed.

The pace of the album is relentless. Only letting up at the last bonus track 'Stars' which sees singer Dave Lord at his most vulnerable. 'Delayed in talking' also sees a pace change but still with an indie disco club stomp infectious beat.

The vocals are some of the best I've heard for a long time- somewhere between James Dean Bradfield form the 'Manic Street Preachers' to Brian Molko from 'Placebo'.

This album will rock your world. God help you if it doesn't.

JD