Reviews / Album

Failed States might not contain the same instant hooks that existed on some of the band’s earlier releases, but – as was the case with its predecessor Supporting Caste – after a few repeat spins it all begins to sink in.

All in all No Zu’s debut effort is a solid release that will no doubt have your hips shaking to the at times somewhat unconventional structure and instrumentation.

There are so many different influences fighting for attention as the album nears its close it becomes a little hard to keep track, and harder still to figure out exactly what genre this group is aiming for.

There is undoubtedly some ‘sameness’ in this album due to the minimal nature of the music and the band’s love of similar guitar riffs, and there’s also something incredibly familiar.

The Irish trio’s sound hasn’t deviated too greatly from their first record, 2010’s Tourist History. But when the relationship feels this good, why would you want to switch beds anyway?

There’s much to love about Yearling; it’s mature, poignant country made accessible by a youthful group of folksters, and yet stands tall as simply a well-crafted, thoughtful and multi-dimensional album with divine harmonies and warm, optimistic storytelling.

Battle Born is The Killers as everyone knows and loves them, but don’t expect any surprises.

Hypnotised is very much an instrumentally-driven album; the fuzzy guitars, roomy drums and pounding bass lines all make for a dark, eerie listen.