If you read my previous Le-gig-cy article about The Lathums, you’ll know just how highly I rate these guys. I would go as far to as say these are my biggest tip for the next massive guitar band.
They’re already selling out 1000+ capacity venues in under an hour, without a proper debut album. However, they have released 10 singles at the time of writing, 8 of which were combined to form an almost album length collection. This is what I’ll be reviewing.
Album Run-through
Echoing again what I said in my le-gig-cy article, album opener “The Great Escape” genuinely is one of the best tracks I have heard in years. Its catchy guitar work makes the song almost instantly distinguishable. The lyrics are meaningful and incredibly mature for the young songwriter. What results is a fantastic single that I cant recommend enough.
The next track is “This Place O’ Yours”. Once again the guitar work instantly stands out, perfectly blending into the rest of the instrumentation. On the surface this song is quite simple, but its so delightfully pleasant to listen to.
Following two tracks “Villainous Victorian” and “Artificial Screens” close out the first half of the collection. The first is heavier than the previous two, with booming drum backing and insistent bass guitar work that builds to a roaring crescendo at the end. “Artificial Screens” continues the remarkably effortless combinations the band can get from it its four staple instruments. The track ends on a brilliant guitar solo from lead guitarist Scott Concepcion.
Opening the 2nd half of the album, is the bands most streamed song, “Fight On”. In this track, thumping fast paced verses transition seamlessly into rousing choruses and refreshing bridges. Alex Moore’s lyrics and delivery also both impress, making this song another must listen.
“I Know that Much” is another track that sounds way too mature for such a new and young band. The lyrics are charming, relevant and passionate, without the help of overused phrases. Supporting the words is beautiful instrumentation that perfectly reflects the emotions of the song.
Finally we have “It Wont Take Long” and “Time For Me, Light For You”. The former is an vigorously energetic track with similarities to early Arctic Monkeys songs. The Last track is much slower and more tranquil. Powerfully delivered lyrics mixed with clean simple instrumentation creates a wonderfully graceful closer to the album.
Overall Review and Score
Its difficult to review this as a whole package as it’s not really the bands debut album. However, the quality of the songs featured create something that is better than most bands full debuts. Every song adds something new to the album, and every one is worth a listen. There is a huge variety not just in the song styles, but also the themes and structures.
The album hit 14th in the UK album charts, not bad for something that was just a combination of two previously released EP’s. The momentum and support the band has at such an early stage in their career is remarkable, but more than deserved.
The Lathums have now been signed by Island Records, releasing the single “All My Life” under the label at the start of July. I fully expect they will be releasing their proper debut album under the same label in the not too distant future. I for one could not be more excited for it, and based on how quick their 2021 tour sold out, I don’t think I’m the only one.
Rating: 8/10
Top 3 Songs:
1. The Great Escape
2. Fight On
3. I Know That Much
