9

A nice taster for the album

Blackbud have played with a long list of household names and well respected alternative acts, supporting the likes of Kaiser Chiefs, Elbow, Hope of the States and Babyshambles. Already this makes them a band worth investigating further.

'Barefoot Dancing' is the West Country trio's latest single. The intro makes you think this will be heavier than it ultimately turns out to be. This track switches moods with ease, from mid tempo alternative rock to that of a more melancholic, some would call it depressing, style; I smell the influence of Radiohead here. Frankly it's a relief when the pace and mood is lifted once again.

This strikes me as a song which will come across very well when played live as the changes in pace and power will be even more noticeable than on CD. Towards the end the vocals suggest they might break into a shout, but this never quite materializes.

The lead guitar work is excellent, and the music for this track outshines the tune, which takes a few listens to get under your skin, but when it does is a perfectly fine song.

'Barefoot Dancing' is available as a single from June 26th and is one well worth a listen. Their new album 'From the Sky' is out in July.