Black Soul Strangers are a London-based Irish foursome who specialise in full-on guitar-laden pop-rock, juxtaposed with more moody efforts. Linking both styles are the impressive vocals of Barry Gorey.
'Panic Sets Direction' builds from a playful start into a speed-riffing gem, and the urgent 'Lies' features a storming drumbeat and nicely ragged guitars. 'Harp' is generally wistful, a deliciously open arrangement building to a triumphant finale. The more restrained and gloriously harmonised 'The Haunting' is reminiscent of Something Happens and/or Editors, a quality pop song, replete with tuneful, echoey guitars and downbeat lyrics. 'Monster' also eases off the throttle to gain much in subtlety, with tinkling xylophone adding a much-needed extra flavour to the standard Indie recipe.
While the melodic 'Witchita' is an exhilarating example of quality indie pop, not least with its punchy chorus, 'You Don't Need It' is too similar to be healthy, prompting concerns that Black Soul Strangers may not yet have found their full range. But make no mistake: they do what they do exceedingly well, with admirable panache and a welcome sense of commitment.