Altsounds - Screaming Lights

Hailing from Liverpool, Screaming lights debut album, 'Volts', Takes a look at the darker, twisted and general grungier side of the British music scene. 'Volts' is very impressive for a first release of any band, Screaming Lights seemed to pull off a vintage tone mixed with some traditional Rock styling to bring us a very well made, yet slightly ‘rough around the edges’ piece of music.

All songs seem to give off a different feel and mood, with the opener and title track, 'Volts', sounding more like something written in the Seattle grunge scene during the early 90’s rather than in Liverpool. The heavy distorted bass style of Alan Breen and slightly ‘Squeaky’ guitars of Max Goldberg work very well together to bring a raw and gritty sound, all of which are propelled by the industrial sounding drums of James Connor. However, ‘Hello Tomorrow’ seems to be written more to the styling of some of REM’s work, with the vocals of James Treadell sung in more of a spoken fashion, this track is definitely a personal favourite of the bunch. For the more relaxed listener, the track titled 'Air in the lung' takes us to the softer side of this release, layered with an acoustic feel, all led by the subtle and simple piano melody, this one stands out in a lot of ways. The examples above just go to show just how diverse Screaming Lights really are, their collective styles and techniques result in a number of distinct, original and brilliantly written songs.

‘Volts’ seems to take a more poetic approach to songwriting, the result of which is a slightly psychedelic rock (or Scouse-Psych as they have been humorously labelled) album that still remains true to the British music scene and traditions. Screaming Lights have found the fine line between Progressive Rock and traditional, creating a style that would appeal to music fans from all walks of life.

‘Volts’ is brought to us thanks to Anti- records, and unfortunately isn’t due for a release until some time in October 2009. I would recommend anyone to check out their new single of the same title until then [see video below].