Come and get it!
‘Against The Wall’ is the debut album from London-based quartet The Peppermint Apes. Originally formed in 2008, the band have recently entered a new phase in their career with a slight line-up change. Original members Ryan Stanton, Zak Ballinger and Lewis Brown have bid adieu to guitarist Darren Owen and welcomed keyboardist David Thorpe.
I reviewed the Peppermint Apes’ ‘The Miracle’ EP in 2009 and fell in love with the rock n’ roll vibe. I expected ‘Against The Wall’ to have a similar sound but I am surprisingly glad to say I was wrong. The sheer diversity of the songs on ‘Against The Wall’ makes it appealing to nearly all tastes; ska-punk, indie, pop, as well as the original 60’s bop rock tunes that turned me into an Apes fan all those months ago, there’s something for everyone here.
The tracks that stand out for me, for very different reasons, are ‘Miracle To Me’ and ‘Come And Get It’. The former was the band’s first single, transporting you back to the 60’s when slick hair and big skirts were all the rage. It’s very sweet and no matter how much the girls out there try to fight it, Ryan Stanton’s smooth crooning will have their hearts in a flutter in no time!
‘Come And Get It’ however, despite its catchy ska-punk rhythm, is not quite so appealing. Reminding me of the office sleaze at the Christmas party, the low-voiced invitation to “come and get it” really made me cringe! Gaining top marks for comedic effect, this one has been stuck in my head for days now and believe it or not, is my favourite track of the album.
My only criticism is not really a criticism at all, each song is very meticulous and controlled, well written, practically perfect in every way... but I would love to see the guys loosen their ties, undo their top buttons and completely rock out! C’mon boys - show us your wild side!
‘Against The Wall’ is a great album that will appeal to young and old alike. It’s great to see a band that’s producing good, simple music that is completely inoffensive in every way. They may not blow our minds with furious guitar shredding or dangerous stage stunts, but it isn’t necessary; the Peppermint Apes’ appeal is in their sincerity.
Aiming high with tours already under their belt in Europe and USA, this band could be massive. To find out more, check out their websites - www.myspace.com/peppermintapes and www.thepeppermintapes.co.uk