“Still Got Friday To Go” is a lyrically superb song to which all of us can relate, as the hammer of the rhythms is juxtaposed with wordless vocal overlay, solid and twangy lead guitars, and Stuart's strident vocal, the song surging ahead but cascading up and down for best effect, the addictive verses, leading into the drive of the hook with purpose and intent – there's so much happening in the track it's almost breathtaking to digest all its splendours in one sitting. Again, another end sees the song out in a gorgeously lyrical ballad vocal set against crisp acoustic backdrop. “Strings (For You And Me)” and “Milk And Honey” are right out of the classic Beatles way of writing, the lyrics an absolute masterpiece of writing, as for both songs, the huge-sounding tidal wave of guitars-driven, solidly rhythmic backing allows the verses to be sung with strength and emotion, leading into a chorus that's totally memorable as the very best indie anthems should be, both songs having an all-round quality that's totally striking, while being stunning examples of modern indie writing and arranging that will live forever, Purvey's vocal delivered with all the feel and strength that, by now, you just know is coming with complete conviction and determination to get across songs that are world-beaters. “Vertical Feeling” is an accelerated song with surging guitars, beefy beats and and a spiralling vocal as the whole thing drives ahead, Purvey's vocal taking on an almost menacing tone to its verse bite but more angst-ridden in its multi-tracked choruses. Another short, simple, electrifying and effective guitar break form Anderson leads back to the main body of the song as the Donald brothers unleash a rock solid rhythm to take it to its close.
“City Boys, City Girls” adds a touch of reggae to the rhythm as the choppy guitars are balance by a soaring vocal performance on a song that rises up as it progresses, becoming a flaring, flaming indie anthem with more socially aware lyrics and another impassioned vocal delivery, no discernible hook not in any way detracting from yet another immediately addictive and yet repeat-playable song.
The album ends with “Congratulations” as a gentle acoustic intro lets Purveys's vocal come right into view with a gorgeous ballad above deep, lilting bass, bell-like tones, ringing piano and crisp, chiming acoustic guitars, in every way, the perfect end to an album that's been THE musical wave you always hoped to ride, but never thought you'd find. It might be cliched to say so, but as songs and delivery go, this is one of the best albums of the last twenty years and will stay that way for many years to come. BACK TO LAW ALBUM REVIEW PART 1