“The band’s debut was recorded on a mountain side in Snowdonia with acclaimed producer Dave Eringa (manic Street Preachers, Idlewild, Kylie Minogue). Telegraph are led by frontman Darcy Harrison and bassist Hattie Williams.”

With the proliferation of new bands emerging over the last 12 months, one is forced to look for a level of distinction and originality to separate the wheat from the chaff. Having just emerged from Liverpool’s major Sound City event and its many ambitious new bands my need to discover something different is magnified. Two ‘happening’ bands who appeared were You Me At Six and White Lies that left me wondering what all the fuss is about, and just how they are selling so many albums. Don’t get me wrong, they are competent bands, but I found nothing in their music to turn me on. Happily Telegraphs have some decent and distinctive songs as this album proves.

‘The Argument’ opens up with the rattle of drums and sharp slivers of guitar before the band let rip and quality rock vocals arrive. There are changes of pace, the odd adventurous guitar riff and a tangible melody to drag the tune along. ‘We Dance In Slow Motion’ has a punk vibe with driving drums and pace that seldom slackens. Lyrically it’s not bad while one senses that there’s control exercised over every single note. ‘Your First Love Is Dead’ opens at frantic pace before slowing to a crawl with the vocal dominating proceedings until choruses signal nothing less than anger and frustration in this love song. This is the first track that shines for me but the next track ‘Forever Never’ climbs even higher in my book. The vibe changes from punk rock to a darker and more contemplative indie vibe as Harrison provides a sensitive and expressive vocal performance. A strong melody, excellent lyrics, epic guitar riffs and clever changes of pace make this a highlight of the album.

‘Drop D Not Bombs’ is an interesting instrumental interlude before ‘I Don’t Navigate By You’ introduces Hattie Williams first lead vocals in a song that combines pop sensibility with heavy rock cleverly and effectively. ‘The Rules Of Modern Policing’ is back to heavy rock while offering up one of the most powerful melodies and best lyrics on the record. A deathly bass vibe lurks threateningly on the next track ‘So Cold.’ It’s a more conventional song but it’s also executed with acute precision especially during the desparing vocal passages.

‘Eyes Stitched Open’ is another major highlight with its haunting instrumental arrangement and clear vocal. Then ‘What’s So Good About Goodbye’ provides a moving and sincere slice of regret and loss with both vocals and instruments acutely tuned into the song’s mood and message.

This is an accomplished debut album which just manages to lift its head above the growing, homogenous crowd. I recommend…

3.9/5