If your favourite musical genres include the blues and classic rock – chances are you’ve already heard of Nic Armstrong & The Thieves. Nic has toured with The Pretenders, Paul Weller, and Oasis; filling fans ears with 60’s inspired sounds since 2004. On latest release Negative Slant, listeners will find more of his refined retrospective sound.
The eponymously named opening track is a charismatic corker – “give me a hook, I will reel you out, and reel you in” sings Armstrong – something he achieves via that rolling 60’s rhythm. Second song ‘Tourist Doll’ has a sombre, Beatle-esque quality to it, with Armstrong’s vocals floating over the haunting, loitering keyboard. ‘Thom The John’ speeds things up again with its boisterous bluesy guitar, whilst ‘Hailing Taxis’ sees Armstrong “dream kaleidoscope” – his psychedelic vision aided by the constant beat of the bass drum and a catchy melodic guitar riff.
‘Soft and Low’ is a thoughtful slow-burning ballad, and a perfect way to close the EP. Armstrong clearly has nostalgic, romantic bones; you’ll yearn to be “holding hands at night, running rings around the circle line” with a loved one after listening. Those who are built from the same ’60s loving ilk will appreciate Nic Armstrong & The Thieves new bout of blues on Negative Slant. The EP is also a sneaky peak at the band’s recording plans for 2016 – so keep your ears and eyes open!
Negative Slant can be downloaded for free HERE
Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut
Kate Crudgington
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