Rating: NNNN
Across the pond, Wild Beasts are being hailed as geniuses, and this time, for once, the UK press might not be freaking out over nothing. The band’s sophomore effort is solid throughout, offering a heady mix of shimmering guitars, arty lyrics and creative rhythms that build on the work of romantic NYC indie bands like the National, the Walkmen and French Kicks.
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Vocalist Hayden Thorpe’s rich countertenor is the Leeds-based four-piece’s most distinctive (and at times challenging) feature. Thorpe’s shameless penchant for vocal passion recalls Antony Hegarty’s work with Hercules and Love Affair, or Nicolas Ker from Poni Hoax. But it’s Ben Little’s lush, layered, brooding guitar playing that’s most memorable.
Top track: This Is Our Lot
Wild Beasts play the Horseshoe February 22.
