Near Musical Express

At first glance, this compilation of unsigned Irish bands from Near Records feels like a bit of an odds ‘n sods affair. Johnny & The Beep Beeps’ ‘Hoosh’ suggests Kasabian minus the synths. Band66’s ‘Call My Name’ reminds you of prime Beautiful South. In a similar vein are the jangly guitars and tambourine shakes of The Statics. Very different is Axial Symmetry‘s ‘Vision Impaired’. Overall, this is hectic but entertaining.