Album Review: Howling Bells - Heartstrings

Since changing their name from Waikiki and moving to the UK, Howling Bells have forged a musical path that lies somewhere between the anthems of The Jezabels (Your Love) and the angst of PINS and Savages (Original Sin). Tender moments like Paper Heart and the brooding title track exist, but across Heartstrings an angular approach is taken that never allows the listener to become complacent. While it doesn't represent a huge change in direction from The Loudest Engine, Heartstrings will surely appeal to Howling Bells fans, and maybe pick up a few more in the process.