Loud and gloriously heavy, the UK’s Band of Skulls’ ‘Baby Darling Doll Face Honey’ is scattered with cultural influences that give away the fact it was recorded with care. Produced, recorded, and mixed by Ian Davenport (Supergrass, Badly Drawn Boy) the album sometimes comes off overproduced but quickly makes up for it with some uniquely catchy tunes.

Just listen to the New Orleans blues-rock on “Light Of The Morning” or the swampy croon on “Blood”. But while there are a few twists here, from bassist/vocalist Emma Richardson’s commanding voice to the cat walk armageddon of “Death By Diamonds And Pearls”, ‘Baby Darling Doll Face Honey’ is nowhere near a dull album. Check out the startling, Stoogies-inspired “Hollywood Bowl,” while the deep bass line on “I Know What I Am” makes it a classic blues-dance track. But while some songs fly off into heavier realms, there’s plenty of mellower songs, notably the overtly melodic “Impossible.” And then there’s Russell Marsden’s plaintive, resolutely modest and yet theatrical voice that makes Band of Skulls’ ‘Baby Darling Doll Face Honey’ this year’s ‘Attack & Release’ (Black Keys).

B

Pre-order ‘Baby Darling Doll Face Honey’ . (release date: 28th of July)

Band of Skulls – Death By Diamonds And Pearls

RSS Comments?

Leave a comment, or trackback from your own site.