The Feeling Something's Wrong,
Phinius GageWe have a pretty close affinity with Phinius Gage here at Punktastic. They were the first unsigned band that we ever reviewed (way, way back in the day), they headlined the second PT bash and have generally been as supportive of us as any other band. We've pretty much grown up with them and vice-versa - it's been like watching the kids next door grow up. Over the years PG have gone from having stacks and stacks of potential to being one of the UK's finest skate-punk bands. If 'More Haste, More Speed' was a step in the right direction, this new album is a leap forward. The songwriting is far better, the structures boast of a band that can write with confidence and it all sounds great.
Whether this has anything to do with the addition of bassist Mike or not (I'm sure he would say it's everything to do with that...) I'm not sure, but Phinius Gage have improved in pretty much every position. If you're unfamiliar with the band they play a tough skate-punk that's steeped in a Britishness that's been lacking from many bands in recent times. I'm as guilty as anyone for liking UK bands that sing in US accents, but that doesn't mean anyone should discard the more natural vocal sound. Ade's vocal has improved a lot since his early days in the band - he's more distinctive than ever and the band use it as a weapon more than the guitar riffs that bounce and buzz from all angles. It makes tracks like 'If You're Listening To This' and 'Sticks and Stones' sound absolutely great - the guitars don't stick to power chords and the basslines are varied and interesting. The drums are also solid throughout, but then anyone who has seen PG live will know that. Other standout tracks, for me, include the fast and furious 'Will we be the only ones left just because we saw it coming? No' and the hard-hitting 'We Are The Romans'.
There are a couple of faux-pas mind - the production isn't perfect; there's something wrong that I can't put my finger on. It's not that it's not thick enough or that it should be heavier, but there's something missing. The cover of Poindexter's 'Are We There Yet?' also doesn't measure up to the original - but the sentiment is there, it's just a pity the Poindexter didn't manage to fulfill their potential. Other than that, this is a fine record that will build on Phinius Gage's reputation. They're rapidly becoming the best UK band in their genre and if they come to your town this year, which they probably will, then you should do your very best to see and support them.
www.phiniusgage.co.uk
Deck Cheese Records
Paul
