People Try To Put Us Down
Wideboy Generation are a band that are causing one or two arguments here at RoomThirteen. Don't worry it is not quite at the same level as David Haye and Dereck Chisora but just as intriguing none the less. In the one corner we have those that are not overly enthused by the band's name and apparent nod to the image it promotes and seemingly encouragement to that very attitude. Then there are those that feel that the music is just great and that the others are just being plain silly. Well, just as the referee is supposed to be, I am going to be neutral in this review.
Firstly, let's introduce Wideboy Generation. They are a three piece from North London and have already built up a strong and loyal fan base in the capital, often providing a "Party Bus" taking fans to gigs beyond the capital; surely a music promoters dream band. No Time To Be Shy is the band's debut album and was produced by John Cornfield. However much it cost to get such an established producer is clearly worth it as it is clear from the onset that it sounds polished and perfectly put together.
What also sounds polished, and probably a tad more important, is the music content. The trio have put together a blinding collection of songs. There are no weak tracks that make you want to hit the skip button; all ten tracks are impressive. Bands looking to release debut albums should listen to No Time To Be Shy and use this as a bench mark - if they can't come near to this level, then go back to the drawing board.
Starting the album off with kick ass tracks as DIY and Sylvia is important to suck in the new listener and never let them go. The majority of the album carries on in the same vein, with great punk rock and lyrics that have plenty of layers to them and not just about being wideboys. Looters! may well be one such track that the knockers may have a particular dislike to but at this stage of the album the enjoyment level is in full flow to care anymore. Change of tempo on People Rollin' and album closer Miss Pronounced with a more bluesy feel showing Wideboy Generation have more than one string to their bow.
Wideboy Generation remind me of a, very rockier and punkier - and far better - version of The Courteeners, they had the same energy when they first started, the same loyal fan base and talent to boot. I fully expect to see Wideboy Generation surpass their level of achievement and be real headline grabbers, just hope it is for the right reasons. But above all, this is one impressive debut. The music is top notch, tight and highly enjoyable. Now, play nice lads.