Better Than Knowing Where You Are,
Spitalfield
I read an interview a few weeks ago with Spitalfield mainman Mark Rose where he proclaimed the band's third album as 'make or break', describing it as the album which would ultimately determine whether the band would make it or not. And while it's admirable the band want to go as far as they can, it's criminal Spitalfield aren't bigger than they already are - their first record, in particular, is a slice of pop-punk genius, while their second record was a more mature, rockier effort. This third album, 'Better Than Knowing Where You Are', kind of marries the two sounds together, merging the poppier elements with full-on rock moments.
And it's the latter where the band excel this time round. Songs like 'Curtian Call' are full-on, pedal-to-the-metal rock songs which beg to be played loud. 'Secrets in Mirrors' is a stomper, 'Hold On' fast and furious, while 'Tell Me Clarice' is infectious with a large dose of melody. While I prefer the charm of the band's older material, this is still a fine record, solidfying my opinion that Spitalfield are one of the best bands around at what they do. Whether this album will take them to the next level - as they obviously crave - remains to be seen. But if you want a record that truly rocks, you're looking in the right place...
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