How many unsigned and competent local rock bands in your neck of the woods? If you’re into music, then you probably know of dozens. It’s the same here in Wrexham where we have at least 3/4 bands that could end up being signed one day. But it’s unlikely. Why? Well, the Mountaineers are a local band from just outside of Wrexham town, and their debut album is an object lesson in how to get signed. There are two key reasons: they sound distinctive, original, and they have songs, good songs. And that’s why so many bands die on the vine. They may be more technically skilled; have a better lead vocalist or better bass or rhythm section. They may sound as tight as a duck’s arse. But without a ’sound’ and without songs they’ll end up in next year’s Cadbury fruit and nut bar.

I have seen the Mountaineers perform on three separate occasions, and for the first two remained unimpressed. But endless gigging with some class shit has succeeded in polishing and honing to a good live band (although still not a great one - yet). No doubt this excellent album will have them scurrying off around the country again, and if they end up near you, go see… The opening track, Ripen, is the band’s first single and to me it’s a natural. Hook laden, great harmonies, orchestral opening, bouncing rock/pop instrumentals, and with a decent set of lyrics sung by a distinctive voice. It’s the ideal opening track with a trace of a dance beat about it. Sewing steps up a gear with distant vocals, plaintive harmonies, strong beat, and bags of inventive electronica. It’s a humdinger that reminds me of a band called Nojahoda who sadly broke up after only one album released back in 1999. Great song, with another discernable dance beat. It’s Solid takes a Beatle-esque acoustic route. It’s a slow-paced stunner with a haunting ambience, great vocal and tangible melody. Beautiful.

I Gotta Sing starts seamlessly and there’s a strong argument for this to be the next single. It has a superb melody, jaunty ambience, original instrumental arrangement and a well-judged vocal. But it also has that type of choral moment that will get audiences cheering as it builds to a crescendo of voice and instruments. Belgique Limb is plain weird and wonderful. It’s a heady mix of sampled vocal, genuine guitar and drums, IT, and represents a nicely diverse moment on an album full of twists and turns.

I could go on and on about this wonderful, interesting and diverse album; I’ll just say that you’ll want to hear every song on this album, and then do it all over - again and again. It’s great to witness a band takes the gloves off and just go for it despite the pressures to ‘play it safe’. Arguably the best band debut album of the year, and beats the shit out of The Thrills, The Coral and other hyper-hyped bands. Essential.

4.5/5