In the wake of King Prawn’s departure from the land of UK punk, it’s unclear as to who’s going to take up their mantle as pioneers of the genre. This demo from Random hand suggests that they’ve got the ideas and ability to become a bit of a ‘buzz’ band but in amongst the genius moments there are a few too many poor sections.
Take opener ‘Simple Case of Ignorance’. With one of the best bass-led intros I’ve heard in ages there’s immediately a minor key ska presence that sounds perfectly languid and menacing at the same time, situating the band right in KP territory. The vocals are in between those of The Police and The Specials but when RH try rocking out they run out of ideas. Obviously the quiet-loud dynamic is one that is well-used for the simple reason that if done correctly it is fantastic, but the contrast in quality is noticeable. Repetitive riffs jar the senses simply because the first section of the song was so thrillingly dark – a sound that RH need to cultivate.
‘Where’s Your Argument?’ is more groove-based, with a playful brass line and a bassline that drives the whole song. It’s a more coherent sound throughout, feeling more and more like RH have found their vibe. The transition between light and dark is much smoother and less bolted-on whereas ‘Simple Case…’ was handicapped by the sense that it was stitched together. ‘Global Pie’ is more straightforward, but the vocals sound annoyingly stretched, as if they’re trying to sound a bit American. It’s a shame because the ska sound they’ve got is so quintessentially English in the way that it broods and grows without resorting to cheap tricks.
As if to prove that RH can do the heavy thing, ‘FUPS’ is a breathless stomp that hints at a bigger, less introspective sound. It is a touch repetitive but allows itself to be more punchy and staccato than the other, smoother songs and works well as a compliment to them. Within the four songs there are more than enough innovative and fresh ideas, but they’re usually positioned next to well-trod staples of the punk genre. It’s by far one of the most promising CDs I’ve got in ages, because right now they don’t sound like anyone else and appear to have a confidence in their sound that is pleasingly bold. I hope they continue like this, because even though this demo isn’t the finished article it’s a healthy sign of things to come. Watch out for them.
Ben
www.randomhand.co.uk
