Album Review: Asylums, Killer Brain Waves

Released on a label which is, according to legend, literally run out of Asylums' spare bedroom in Southend-on-Sea, Killer Brain Waves could very well be the record which takes the fiercely D.I.Y. quartet to the next level.

Featuring their five radio-bothering singles, the music found on their debut is a heady mix of sugared melodies and punk-informed guitars that harks back to the likes of Ash and The Wildhearts in their pomp. While the material is a throwback to '90s rock, the lyrics, which tackle the death of the high street, austerity, gender equality and more, give proceedings a thoroughly modern flavour.

Packed with plenty of fast-paced, hook-laden highlights, 'I've Seen Your Face In A Magazine', driven by a delightfully wonky riff that makes you feel like you've been punched in the face by a rainbow and the anthemic world-beater 'Joy In A Small Wage' are particular stand-outs. The chugging, down-tuned 'Monosylabic Sylvia' also hints at a meatier direction. A bright future awaits.