'Soundcheck' presents a fuller, more experimental sound for the Welsh rockers, and sets the bar for their second studio album pretty high.
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Catfish and The Bottlemen are back with the follow up single from their debut album, The Balcony. The highly anticipated new single, ‘Soundcheck’ is pretty much an extension of their gritty pop-rock sound with all of their signature staples, but this time along with an enticing new edge.
The track begins with the Bottlemen’s signature drum beat paired with lead singer Van McCann’s husky vocals and instead of being lost in a sea of catharsis come-chorus as expected, it heads into a softer direction with a smoother, more harmonious offering.
It has a certain sense of nostalgia about it, and brings about a more innocent sound for the Welsh quartet. Melodies are lighter, and the usual harsh drumming (although present as ever) is somewhat substituted for a fuller vocal presence, allowing them the opportunity for more of an exploration with their sound. It is reminiscent of their typical post-punk revival ethic, but has an added vibrancy, a thicker musical texture and is a track incredibly well-suited to the era of The Dandy Warhols, Vampire Weekend and General Fiasco.
‘Soundcheck’ is the perfect teaser for the Bottlemen’s second studio album, and although facing colourful criticism from some loyal fans – and a whole host of praise from others, promises to grow on you in a way that the remainder of their repertoire previously has.
‘Soundcheck’ is out now via Island Records.
