Attic Lights - Love In The Time Of Shark Attacks

Released: Jan 2019 (A while ago but very deserving of a review)
Label: Elefant Records
Listen on Spotify

I had been anticipating the third album from Glasgow's Attic Lights for a while (their first in 6 years) and it did not disappoint! I still regard their debut album, 2008's 'Friday Night Lights' as one of the best ever. 

For this band, it has always been about the songs and there is no exception here. 'Never By Myself' is a great opening track and brought to mind their Power Pop influences, Badfinger and Big Star. The best song on the album is 'Fables', a beautiful and delicate ballad, sung so sweetly by Kev Sherry. Other highlights are the unbelievably catchy 'Louis' and 'Kings of Whatever', which are so upbeat and filled with great pop hooks.

If you haven't heard of this band, I would strongly recommend you check them out. Don't forget to check out their earlier stuff too. All three of their albums are truly great. Melodic guitar pop at its best.

Armstrong - Under Blue Skies

Released: Jul 2019
Label: Country Mile Records and The Beautiful Music
Listen on Spotify

'Armstrong' is Welsh songwriter Julian Pitt and this is a re-release of his 2007 album 'Under Blue Skies'. It is well deserving of a re-release as (to my knowledge) it was overlooked the first time around. When you listen, you will wonder why, as it is a great collection of well-crafted pop songs.

'Baby You Just Don't Care' is a highlight for me and brought to mind Burt Bacharach and The Pale Fountains. The soaring harmonies in the chorus are just magical. 'The Things That Pass You By' creates wistful feelings lyrically, but still manages to be uplifting. 'September Skies' sounds quite like the Beach Boys in places, giving it a timeless quality.

On the whole, this is a beautiful record and highly recommended, especially if you like thoughtful, emotional lyrics and nice harmonies. The perfect soundtrack to a summers day, or indeed any time of the year.