Album Review: You Me At Six - VI

When an artist reaches album number six, they tend to get comfortable and have a little fun, and that’s what English alt-rockers You Me At Six have done with their latest release VI.

The album takes on a fearless attitude and you can tell the band have just done whatever they’ve wanted, with no boundaries to bind them as they explore various tones and styles. Opening track Fast Forward is rough and ready and Josh Franceschi's grungy, raw vocals definitely bring a strong sense of angst and power to the track. Taking on a Two Door Cinema Club vibe with Back Again, You Me At Six shoot off into new territory, and it actually works. The soulful bass line, bouncy beats and Franceschi’s poppy falsetto make for a shockingly great vibe. This follows through in fun party track 3AM; its poppy melody is something to let your hair down to with a sassy smirk. There's a slick, sensual mood that bleeds throughout. Soft, simple bass plucks set to the tempo of a slow-motion strut with I O U’s dirty guitar and low vocal range make a raunchy rock'n'roll track.

Ending on the emotive Losing You, You Me At Six’s early emo-love-ballad selves peak through the cracks as the album floats to a harmonious conclusion. 

For a band who’ve been together for over ten years, it’s exciting to see them sounding so vibrant, unforgiving and stronger than ever.