A Mixed Lot
Glasgwegians Le Reno Amps certainly know how to mix it up with an album that features a massive variety. Opener ‘Outlaws’ is quite an act to live upto with raunchy guitars, a racing pace and chugging riffs and there’s a stark change in style already by the second track which is a jaunty, slightly twee but very upbeat number that has more of a blues twang. So far so good but suddenly, ‘You Do Your Thing’ comes from nowhere and sounds like a teen punk band have burst into the studio and taken over, it sounds very Less Than Jake with more pop and bouncy, cheesy style. The sneering pop punk vocals continue into ‘You Do Your Thing’, although the guitars get a little heavier so it’s far less of an embarrassment than the preceding number. There’s some snazzy guitarwork and fun vocal harmonies and it’s a well-written pop melody that could certainly hold its own gracing the airwaves.
‘The Stand Off’ is a brash, rock tune with easy style and a catchy nature with some top vocal harmonies breaking out from fractious guitar riffs. It’s easily the best tune on the album, matching the early splendour of the dramatic opener. ‘Body’ is a soft, gentle tune that washes over you with soft slide guitar and lazy vocals, adding another style to Le Reno Amps’ collection.
‘Send Me On My Way’ again embraces the more countrified style with a jolly, upbeat rhythm and raspy vocal harmonies that are pleasant and easy to hum along to. It’s all good fun. ‘The Gilded Road’ closes the album with a bold, brash rhythm that has an epic edge and big enough riffs to fill a stadium. Raucous guitarwork permeates the tune leading it to an explosive crescendo that leaves the listener hungry for more.
There are some fabulous songs on this album, it’s just a shame that they’re mixed with some slightly dubious offerings that feel like they’re performed by a totally different band. Variety is the spice of life but it’s also important to know your strengths and play to them.