The Boys With The Perpetual Nervousness - Songs From Another Life

Released: 5 Feb 2021
Label: Bobo Integral/Kool Kat
Listen and Buy Here

The Boys With The Perpetual Nervousness is the side project of Andrew Taylor from Dropkick. Their song 'Feeling Never Goes Away' was one of my favourites of last year, so I was quite excited to hear this. Dropkick also have a new best of which I would recommend checking out too.

This album is full of the usual guitar pop gems. It opens with 'I Don't Mind' which has Summery Teenage Fanclub vibes. 'Play (On My Mind)' is more of the same, heartfelt melodic indie at its finest.

My favourite here is the wonderful 'Rose Tinted Glass' which is instantly memorable with fantastic pop hooks. Most of the songs here are under 3 minutes long and although short, are very satisfying.

Other highlights include 'Summer' with its sparkling guitar riffs and anthemic chorus. 'In Between' is a lovely closing song, simple and sweet. They don't stray away from their usual sound but it is very enjoyable and will sound especially great in the Summer. A highly recommended listen.

Dropkick - The Scenic Route

Released: 7 Feb 2020
Label: Sound Asleep/Bobo Integral
Listen and Buy Here

I have been aware of Scottish jangle pop band - Dropkick for a few years. As soon as I listened to the 'Good Vibes' compilation, I was hooked. They are fantastic at writing ultra melodic, summery pop songs, and this is demonstrated further here.

It opens with 'Feeling Never Goes Away' which is about as perfect a 2 minute pop song as you will ever hear. It is so uplifting, straight away recalling The Byrds and Teenage Fanclub.

Other highlights include 'Catching On' which has some lovely harmonies and heartfelt lyrics. 'A Matter of Time' is another sweet love song, simple yet well-written and memorable. 'Home Early' is an emotional listen, as is the beautiful closing song 'You'll Always Be There'. The latter has slight Americana vibes too.

Dropkick don't stray away too much from their comfort zone of guitar pop ballads, but this is a good thing and it is a very enjoyable listen. Especially 'Feeling Never Goes Away' which made it feel as though Summer had come early. A superb album.