Something Good, Something Bad

You have to feel sympathy for new bands these days. Unless some benign record company exec comes to whisk you off, JJ72 style, to a better life before you’ve even really started, you’re caught between the rock of being true to your own aims and the hard place of giving the people want they want (aka making a living).

Having seen countless bands fight a losing battle with disinterested audiences over the years, it’s easy to understand why others opt for the route of pleasing at least some of the people some of the time. The question, as ever, is: can you do it with a bit of style and originality.

The Smouldering Sons Of The West are a product straight out of that conundrum. They certainly have ambition and, there are many fine moments on Something Good, Something Bad. It is hardly surprising that they are at their best when they forget that they are a four-piece rock band from Suffolk and head for the more exotic pastures of Americana.

Opener ‘Johnny Allen’ recalls memories of early, good Dire Straits – complete with fluid guitar work from Jason Scopes. Elsewhere, there are lovely moments of slide guitar, double bass and perky percussion, all displaying a genuine feel and love for the music.

When they play it straighter they are in more familiar pub rock territory – but when was having a good time a bad idea?

This is an impressive outing from a band that clearly has a lot of potential. From the Rockingbirds to Witness and Grand Drive, Britain has had a history of producing the odd country rock gem and, with a little careful nurturing, The Smouldering Sons could add their name to the list.