The Slow Readers Club THE JOY OF THE RETURN. Modern Sky UK

“I think it’s definitely our most interesting and accomplished record musically. Lyrically the album covers love, alienation, the rise of right wing populism and comments on algorithm driven propaganda. Ans as always, I try to deliver those lyrics with uplifting melody.” - Aaron Starkie

Manchester’s Slow Readers Club are no slouches - this is the third LP in 3 years (including a live album) and the band toured extensively last year. I actually caught a live show in Manchester and was more than impressed. There’s no doubting that the band has a signature sound and that Starkie’s voice plays a key role. However, after a few listens I wish I could have like the album more.

This is a rhythmically driven record where the first half of it sounds pretty much the same. Drums tend to dominate proceedings and, due to production, on several tracks drowns out just about everything else. Melodies, however, are plentiful while some choruses fail to light my fuse. Lyrically the album is more interesting. Take the second track, ‘Something Missing’, which to me seems to describe our current prime minister: “His golden reputation, was years in/He found himself the good life and boy/did he deserve it, he worked so hard.” and “Your golden education is fuel for your/frustration, too smart. Surrender to/temptation, through years of mutilation/you played your part.” Sparkling guitars play a more important role here while the jagged beat lends a love/hate vibe. Melody also happens to be stronger here.

Drums return in earnest on ‘Problem Child’ as the band take opn a more punky character. ‘Jericho’ displays a more traditional rock style while ‘No Surprise’ boasts a strong melody and another set of good lyrics: “My surrender is complete, whatever fate/decress, all hope and fear and life and eath/in symmetry. See light through crooked trees/through charlatans and thieves, as algorithms/filter our reality.” The stuttered instrumental chorus distinguishes the song.

‘Killing Me’ ups the sonic anti with an incendiery rocky opening before it calms down to boasta  strong melody and more excellent lyrics. ‘All The Idols’ offers a diverse sound with ringing guitar introducing an interesting song. ‘Zero Hour’ also offers a point of difference with its slower and quieter vibe. Fans will love the album buit grabbing new ones may prove more difficult…

3.5/5

https://www.theslowreadersclub.co.uk/