Parka - Attack of the Hundred Yard Hardman
They may not be new faces to hit the music scene since they released their first record back in 2006, but ‘Attack of the Hundred Yard Hardman’ is the debut album from this Scottish band and about to make them hit the big time.
Parka has created an album bursting to the seams with catchy riffs; sing-a-long anthems and enough lyrical rumbles to get even the sourest of individuals crack a smile. Led by vocalist, lyricalist and guitarist Matt Thomson this album is given an enjoyable, cheerful and lively atmosphere. From the musical arrangements, the lyrical lines, the vocal talents and the presence of others joining in all give the impression of a community of fun loving folks who enjoy gathering around for a quick tune.
It is hard to put into words the effect the lyrics have on a listener as each track beholds something different. Within the first track, ‘Bosses and Bastards’ the fast paced lyrics are difficult to understand, you grab maybe every other word, but with the electric riff and energetic sensation that swarms over you, you just don’t seem to care. Sometimes the lyrics are more distinct like on ‘Disco Dancer’ where they are more comprehensible and on ‘There’s A Riot (Goin’ On)’. With the heavy guitar underpinning the chanting vocals, the chorus becomes one that a crowd can really sink their teeth into. There are some moments were the lyrics really hit heart and become heart-warming, other times comical. On ‘Wake Up Call’ they flow easily off the tongue “I’m never gonna fall, without a wake up call, to keep to keep me moving on, every now and then you come around again to get me on my feet” and with the London reference to London on ‘Hoxton Hair’ it becomes more personal.
Vocals are simple, easy to listen to and quite ordinary, but it this that makes them so incredibly catchy and enjoyable to listen to. The harmonies on ‘DJ In The Corner’ are remarkable and add depth to the track. The sparkling thing about this album is the atmosphere every track gives off. The entire album is like a drinking session in the pub with your mates, singing and joking, taking the piss out of your friends. The acoustic ‘You’re No Geezer (But You Try)’ gives honest and humorous lyrics that feel like we know the character they are singing about.
The music is loveable and pulls a listener in with the riffs and more intimately the string and brass sections of some tracks. ‘Mr. Optimistic’ has a reserved brass verse with an explosive chorus that has a pop vibe you can’t help but fall into. ‘Better Anyway’ has catchy hooks and an electric beat, ‘If You Wanna?’ kicks the rhythm into over drive with the rolling drums making the entire track kick up some excellent riffs and vocals and then there is the ‘Baggy Trousers’ style tune ‘I Don’t Wanna Fight You Tonight’ that is even more noticeable when the vocals begin. When the album approaches slower and more held back tracks it is as if another band has taken over. It is quite difficult to believe both opposing sides are form the same band. ‘Stay Away’ is more of a ballad, much lighter and ha a more emotional atmosphere.
‘Attack of the Hundred Yard Hardman’ is one of the most enjoyable records I have had the pleasure to review.