Healthy Minds Collapse - Butterfly Skin
Scotland is simply satiated with musical talent at the moment, with The Xcerts, Twin Atlantic and good old Biffy Clyro being just three of the many, many exciting acts making their presence known.
Another band to add to that growing list is Fife trio Healthy Minds Collapse. Indeed, these lads (brothers Andy and Colin Malcolm and Angus Schroder) are seemingly intent on initiating a 90s grunge revival, which they prove, when done correctly, can be a very good thing. Yes, as disastrously wrong as a blast from the past could have gone, the group's debut album 'Butterfly Skin' fantastically fuses elements of both old and new, making for an incredible listen from the get-go.
Opener 'Thrust' is gritty and guitar-driven, deliciously hinting at the Scotsmen's Seattle scene influences, including namedroppers Nirvana and Alice In Chains, who HMC were actually invited to support at Brixton Academy. Follow-up track 'Puppet' is distinctly more modern, but equally enjoyable and hum-worthy. Boasting a radio-friendly chorus that could easily rival some of Biffy's back catalogue, it superbly showcases the three-piece's strong songwriting skills.
Brilliantly, the whole blummin' record treads this exemplary path, offering up an astounding amalgamation of galloping grunge and melodic rock-ready anthems. If word count allowed every damn song would receive a mention, but as it doesn't here are the other highlights...
Fortunately not living up to its title, 'Overrated' is a striking slab of rowdy riffage and perfectly placed gang vocals, proving a peak despite being just short of three minutes. 'Pass It On' is contagiously catchy, sporting a slightly indier sound and stylish stanzas that scream sing-a-longs. Similarly mellow, 'Get Out Of My Way' and closer 'Kill Away' are going to prove perfect for live shows, both oozing an effervescent energy that fans will undoubtedly connect with.
It's been a while since an album that can be listened to incessantly has graced my desk. Accordingly, this incredibly uplifting full-length, which is a reminder that debuts can be delightful, is one that's going to be kept close.
It might be a bold statement, but Healthy Minds Collapse are well on their way to becoming Scotland's new superstars, Biffy Clyro better start worrying.