My first foray into the world of Don’t Look Down was a couple of years ago when I heard a frankly piss poor cover of a track I unfortunately can’t recall. It was simply that bad, it put me off them for the immediate future and I managed to avoid their attention until ‘The Fear in Love’ landed on my doorstep three weeks ago. Somewhat apprehensive after my first experience of the quartet, the first listen was an intriguing one to say the least, but the result after 36 minutes? Well cook-a-cat they have improved beyond my wildest dreams.
That is not to say all is perfect though in the good ship ‘Don’t Look Down’. While all tracks display a much improved sound of crashing drums and chugging guitars, it all becomes a little repetitive upon repeat listens. Opener ‘Right Where it Starts’ displays this type of combination perfectly and is sure to create a frenzy when performed live, but from here on in, not a lot changes. But maybe I am being harsh as the band have arguably found a sound which they are comfortable with and as such are showing it to great affect, and although I criticise, I have found it difficult to replace ‘The Fear in Love’ with other records that need listening to.
As for the other tracks on show ‘Trust is a Word’ crunches and throbs from start to finish while the relatively serene ‘Last Breath’ displays a much more refined sound that pulls you in before spitting you out in fine fashion. ‘Down and Out’ produces a superb melodic sound and is a highlight, while title track ‘The Fear in Love’ is the only real letdown as it nearly enters shitty ballad territory before pulling out just in time to save face.
I have to hand it to Don’t Look Down, I wasn’t looking forward to reviewing this, but thankfully they have pulled a solid record out the bag. The soft wet pop-punk band I once knew have been transformed into gutsy melodic punk rockers and as such should see an upturn in fortunes if there is any justice. Try it, you may well be surprised.
Jay
www.dontlookdown.com
Nitro Records