Hurry Up Dinwiddy!
Considering that The Indicators was born out of "boredom, lack of cash and direction", this British trio have shown with their latest single Simon D that they are certainly capable of producing charismatic results. The Indicators are not alone in their pursuit of late'70s-inspired lyrical punk, with producer David M. Allen (of The Cure and Depeche Mode fame) behind the desk to ensure that the three-piece craft compelling anthems for the modern day.
Named after their frontman Simon Dinwiddy, the upbeat single exudes playful boisterousness, bearing mannish mannerisms topped off with the vocalist's enchanting dialect. Bassist Aaron O'Mara and drummer Richard Mayberry help bring this bouncy riot of a song to life with their spirited performances, forming a strong musical bond with Dinwiddy. The use of tambourine works delightfully well and although it is used extensively throughout the track, it never feels out of place or an unwelcome feature. All vocals are treated with a roomy reverb, adding to the sing-a-long, chant style that cleverly makes you want to join in by singing the Londoner's name.
Unfortunately the accompanying B-side, Girl, dilutes the excitement generated by Simon D and is comparatively deficient of charm. The simple, fuzzy bassline that tediously plods along is not only slouchy in composition but poor in execution, but as soon as the grinding vocal performance begins, which makes Dinwiddy sound like an inebriated, late night karaoke singer, the lifeless chord progression becomes an insignificant complaint.
Although the claim that Simon D is the best "down the pub" chant since Sham 69s' Hurry Up Harry may seem conceited, the punky single is a strong swaggering anthem from the Brits that simply oozes genuine character. If the material featured on The Indicators' upcoming album (due April 2012) leans more towards the quality of this single's A-side, then it could prove to be one full-length release well worth checking out.