Catchy, quirky and almost theatrical in approach, The 1922s (formerly The Evil Harrisons) blend deft, piano-based melodies with skillful harmonies and dramatic arrangements, to create something that, it has to be said, is unique on the current scene. There’s a music hall quality to their debut album, mixed in with a Ben Folds Five sensibility that is unselfconsciously compelling.
The recent single ‘Porcupines & Balloons’ perfectly sums up their ‘give-it-a-lash’ approach, with its frenetic piano-pounding, complex rhythms and infectious melody. The instantly appealing mid-tempo ballad, ‘Eaton Street Girl’ boasts sumptuous west coast harmonies, while ‘Over Fire River’ showcases a jazzier side to the five-piece, who all appear to be virtuoso musicians. Elsewhere, you can almost taste the margaritas and feel the heat of the sun on the gorgeously arranged slice of American pop that is ‘Key West’, while songs like ‘Light in the Belfry’, ‘Cinderella Shoe’ and ‘The Cellarman’ all demonstrate their refreshing way with an infectious melody and an irresistible rhythm.
With 16 tracks on this sprawling album (some of which appears to have been recorded live) they’ve probably spread themselves a tad thin, diluting the initial impact. But as an introduction to their undoubtedly riotous live shows, it can only serve them well.