Album Review: 'W.A.R' by The Arkanes


Band: The Arkanes
Title: W.A.R
Genre: Rock
Label: SPV Recordings
Release: 25th April 2014
hits rating: 9,5/10
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Hey guys,

"Please describe the album in three words!", that's something I like bands who are about to release their debut album to do.
And so I asked The Arkanes to do it.
As their a group of four these are some of the words that were being said: rocking, tremendous, the opposites of happy, fluffy and light, awesome, majestic, bad-ass.

After said interview I got the album to start my review and I made it my goal to describe the album in three words as well. But before I do that, let me tell you more about the band.



The Arkanes are a rock band from Liverpool, England. Formed back in 2007 the band had some member changes. But with their current line up, The Arkanes are stronger than ever.

Chris Pate (lead vocals, guitar)
Lee Dummett (bass, backing vocals)
Andy Long (drums)
Dylan Cassin (lead guitar, backing vocals)

With just a six track EP out called 'Don't Act Like You Know Me' already got multiple plays on radio shows in Switzerland, Germany and the US and built a strong fanbase around the globe.


Tracklist:
1) Onus
2) Sharpshooter
3) Command.Turn.Revolt
4) Vampyre
5) Terracotta
6) Stand Alone Inc.
7) Guilt Trip
8) Skeletons
9) Nuclear
10) W.A.R
11) Paper Planes
12) Edge

Choosing 'Onus' to open the album was a really wise decision. The song represents the 'Kanes sound', that doesn't mean their sound is monotonous. (hell no!)
Killer drums beats and the energetic bass line collide into a brilliant rhythm line and are
paired with raw guitar riffs and strong vocals. Track one is already a treat for your ears.

'Sharpshooter', the first official single, is definitely on fire. Another set of riffs that burns into your brain, expressive and impressive vocals

The Arkanes definitely know what works for them. With influences such as Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and of course their hometown heroes - The Beatles.
You'll definitely be able to hear those influences but you'll also realize that the band has its very own sound.

Of course a good rock band can also play ballads. 'Vampyre', 'Skeletons' and 'Paper Planes' build the slower, softer section of the album.

That Chris, Andy, Dylan and Lee are fantastic musicians absolutely shows in 'Nuclear', each member of the group controls their element and created a tune that is absolutely on point that way.

As a journalist the lyrics are always a big thing for me. I'd say 50% of the review rating is caused by the lyrics.
Title track 'W.A.R' became one of my personal favourites. The strongest part of the song is the message. Attacking political issues and criticizing the concept of society being under control of the government, singer and writer Chris shows that rock is not all about drugs and love.

When I first saw The Arkanes live their energy was what got me. And exactly that energy, that makes you want to move and soak in the music is present on the album.
 'Terracotta', a very energetic and even danceable track is a great example for the energy and the variety the Liverpooler band is able to create.

To sum it up: I had a tough time keeping this review at a decent length. When you love all 12 songs of an album and want to talk about each one it can get a bit too wordy, so I'll stop here.
'W.A.R' is one of the strongest debut albums I've ever heard. Chapeau!

And now, how would I describe the album in three words?
Electrifying, convincing and brilliant.

You should listen to these tracks: see tracklist
But if your time is limited make sure to check the tunes below.



The Arkanes online: Twitter | Facebook | Soundcloud


Thanks for reading!


Credits // Text: Vanessa Jertschewske | Artwork & Photograph: oktoberpromotion.com (press kit The Arkanes)

2 comments:

  1. Allein das Cover ist schon total genial. Ich glaub die Platte kauf ich mir. :)

    ReplyDelete

Let me know what you think! :)