The Living End are one of the most consistent bands around. With a clutch of singles that have been romping, stomping anthems and four previous studio albums that have sold millions between them, the Aussie boys are back with album number 5 and, surprise, surprise, another solid release.
I’ve always been shocked The Living End haven’t managed to convert the success in their homeland to the UK and the US. Sure, lots of people know who they are and they can headline decent-sized venues here, but their songs are arguably worthy of more than they’re dealt. ‘White Noise’ isn’t as commercial sounding as some of their older material and so I can’t see their status changing anytime soon. That doesn’t make this record poor – ‘White Noise’ has a classic rock feel to it, interspersed with the band’s trademark rock and roll feel. ‘How Do We Know’, ;Loaded Gun’ and the album’s title track remind us that this band are all about energy and riffs. And while the sound is slightly refined, the band are on tip-top form.
The Living End don’t write half-assed songs or patchy albums. Each of their records is strong and choc-full of riffs. This album is no different and fans will undoubtedly love it.