Symbol smashing, snare thumping, brass tooting, axe wielding quartet Howards Alias are back. With a vengeance. And once again they have pulled another stunning release out the bag with this, their 3rd full length and 2nd under Household Name Records. Those familiar with the previous album “The Answer is Never” will be pleased to know the formula hasn’t been changed drastically with the enticing melodies and intense energy still doing the rounds and with Peter Miles on nob turning duties the band have never sounded better. With the sound being so pristinely polished it is left to the band to show what they can do, and they perform with honours. Whether it is gentle reggae overtones or scorching post hardcore punk, nothing is beyond their grasp and it serves to refine what is commonly known that Howards Alias are one of the best bands our scene has produced in the last few years.
Everything featured from the more prominent keyboard elements to the sound of the distinctive guitar riffs are a joy to behold and prove the perfect fodder for the refined vocals of Matthew Reynolds and Nick Horne to take centre stage and dominate the Howards Alias sound. The first real stand out is the angst ridden ‘Exit on Left’ while ‘Rabbit in Headlights’ must inevitably become a live favourite with its up tempo charms. But while the more outlandish tracks may gain initial plaudits, it is left to the growers to really lay their mark. ‘The Drive‘ for me, is simply beautiful. It is brash without being mindless and caring without coming across as patronising. It flows incredibly well and is a joy to behold as it proves the flagship for the middle of the album.
But while the band maybe famed for some of there more in your face pacy tracks, there are a couple of slower numbers which instantly stand out and grab you. ‘Difflam’ is a sombre tale of remorse and has a remarkably touching intro into-verse structure before a bolting chorus sends you spiralling, while the chilled out tones of ‘Maggie and Me Pt1’ provide a refreshing break halfway through. But while barely any of the album can be faulted, it should be noted that it isn’t a great deal different to ‘The Answer is Never’. And If you have heard that and didn’t find it your cup of tea, then you may want to steer clear of ‘Beat Heart, Beat’, but I can’t help think you will be in the minority.
While it may not be as groundbreaking as TAIN was once perceived to be, this is a more than able follow up, and one which Household Name and the band will take great pride in. The Southampton quartet certainly have a knack for finding the right elements for a track to work, picking the correct times for the blow of a trombone or the slowing down of a melody, and everything is placed with the kind of precision Tiger Woods would be proud of. Continuing where the last left off, it is a must have summer release to lap up and enjoy while our humble country is enjoying the plentiful sunshine, and may the heart of Howards Alias continue to beat forever more.
Jay
Household Name Records