I remember seeing Crackout perform many moons ago in Liverpool, and then again in Wrexham a few months later. The buzz surrounding them was tangible, but at the time I wondered what all the fuss was about. It seemed to me that the band was struggling to find its sound, and one that would differentiate them in a crowded and rather homogenous marketplace. This album goes a long way in establishing the band’s sound and style. And it ain’t bad…

Jangling guitar chords and rampant drums open the first track, Out Of Our Minds. A distinct punk rock flavour sugar-coated with pop sensibility makes this a pretty strong opening gambit. Next track, Insect Song, slows the pace and darkens the mood while impressing with its melody, relentless guitar strum and excellent vocal. This is a super song that sounds original and introduces clever changes of pace during its wonderful passage. The punk vibe raises its head again with the aggressive This Is What We Do. A strong, clear vocal, monster melody, superb instrumental passages and good lyrics result in a song that but would no doubt be explosive performed live.

Every song here has something to offer, but more importantly, the band has found a sound that combined with excellent songs should help create a viable future. I didn’t think they could do it, but they have and I take my hat off to them. Strongly recommended.

3.5/5