Posted on June 10, 2010 - by Editor

Single Reviews: Usual Players/ Baby Head/ The Dead Class/ Goldblade

So What Ford/Soul Of Rock n Roll
Usual  Players
One Thirty Four Records

This two track release from the London based five piece ska/indie band is reminiscent of old school ska such as The Selector mixed in with the progression of The Jam and they are undeniably British. The first track ‘So What Ford’ is an angsty number and the vocalist delivers short bursts of lyrical vengeance aptly supported by keys and horns which results in a sharp bouncing sound. The second song ‘Soul Of Rock n Roll’ has a similar drum beat but the song is deliberately far more relaxed and smooth. The lyrics are packed with UK and punk scene references, mocking scene trends, ska and at the heart of it is a witty, ironic and funny track which results in a sweet and tidy but bop along tune with a nice horns solo.

Jungle Law/Think Money
Baby Head
Rockers Revolt

With a full length album “Heavy Weather” due in 2010, the band has released two singles with accompanying remixes (Lupo dub). The songs ‘Jungle Law’ and ‘Think Monkey’ are a celebration of dub, reggae and upbeat (in the case of the second track) infectious tunes. The fusion of sound creating an eclectic mix of styles as the band borrow from all quarters of the musical landscape including a rapping vocal delivery results in a positive outlook on a grim time from a group that have for a decade hones their skills and sound.

Dirty Dick
The Dead Class
AntiPop Records

With their next full length record “Stick” on the way later in 2010 The Dead Class offer a sample in the form of the single ‘The Dirty Dick’ which is about a man in a compromising situation with a hooker, in which he needs to battle with his own principles and belief. The song is further reflection of a band that doesn’t skirt with regular topics and delivers them in a dark, witty but unique manner. It’s difficult to categorise the band, which is great and refreshing but you could argue there are elements of Killing Joke and Jello Biafra in what they do, without being neither. Villy’s vocals are a cut above the generic punk trends and the uncomfortable delivery will continue to split listeners but if you want a genuine alternative to punk trends give The Dead Class a chance.

Still Dreaming
Goldblade

With the football world cup intensifying hype and dreams, and breeding a host of world cup unofficial anthems, Goldblade have come to the party with their punk rock mix. John Robb’s distinctive lyrics vocalising a fantasy team of cultural icons playing alongside historical heroes in a band inspired imagining of their ultimate football team. Throw in the gang chorus of the title and crowd cheering to add to the atmosphere and the single is a reasonably rousing England anthem for the month of madness that is to come.