Album Review: Gypsies On The Autobahn, Suspended

Famously formed during their school days in order to enter a Battle Of The Bands competition, Gypsies On The Autobahn’s 2017 debut, Born Brief, firmly established the indie four-piece as serious contenders. The follow-up sees them return for round two, and despite having considerably less time on this occasion, the Dubs have come out fighting once again – and impressively so. Based around a central theme of hope born from moments of struggle, it’s a more assured beast than its predecessor, brimming with confidence and class.

A record which rewards repeated plays, Suspended doesn’t stray too far away from what made us fall in love with Gypsies On The Autobahn in the first place. Rather, it refines their sound. Slow-burning opener ‘Big Blue’ delivers a satisfying pay-off; the jittery, Arcade Fire-esque ‘Gonna Be Strong’ is a surefire set staple; while ‘Rubicon’, which flirts with ‘80s soul, showcases James Smith’s fine falsetto. Best of all is the piano, strings and voice-based ‘Make You Mine’, which is a simple – but massively effective – mainstream-style ballad. It could be a big hit. And if it is, then these guys might no longer be suspended.

Out now.