Ohio’s Annabel sound a little like early The Get Up Kids. Which made me really want to like this little EP. And I do, to an extent, I just think Annabel aren’t quite as good as they could be. As a little EP this is cute, there are a few little twee, under-produced tracks that sound rough and ready and that all adds to the charm. But the melodies aren’t quite strong enough yet and there’s something missing which I can’t quite put my finger on. Which is a shame as the band are very clearly on the right lines.
The first track is a joy to behold, but the band don’t quite maintain the high standards and while each song is good, there’s not quite enough here to send them into great territory. I’d recommend this band if you’re looking for something quite laid back and chilled out. Oh, and major kudos to the handmade CD cases this arrived in. Really, really good work on that score.