Altsounds - Buffalo 77 - Memento [Album]

Buffalo 77’s new album starts out with “Won’t Forget”, an echoey melodic track which sets the scene for the rest of the album. When listening to this track I am vaguely reminded of The Manics from the 1990’s, but not the best bits of The 90's Manics however.

The album never really progresses from the lukewarm start offered by the opener. However, track seven “Going Over” is initially quite pleasing to the ear, it deals with a failed relationship and the feeling and thoughts that occupy your mind. However, what starts out as a promising track does not progress into a truly complete song. The problem with is it's not at all memorable and by the end you have no sympathy left for the emotional nature of the lyrics. The singer fails to make me care about his pain and I doubt that he could make anyone identify with his pain.

Track nine “Knock Them Down” channels the spirit of Roxy Music, there is an attempt to create a memorable sing-along chorus but it never really connects with either my heart or my brain. Also, the jaunty riff in the background is repeated endlessly, interspersed with rampant tambourine playing that is just a car crash of competing instruments, and influences.

The album “Memento” is hardly groundbreaking or earth shattering. It is a mediocre slice of indie pop. At times the album is heavy going and the time really drags. By the time I get to the final track “With Vigour” I am screaming blah blah blah at my stereo and want to throw it out of the window. Not a good sign!

If you like poorly executed indie pop then check this out, if that sounds like your idea of hell then I would advise you to avoid this album like the plague. I wish this album could be unheard but alas I do not have those god-like powers.