Rating: NNNN
With so many North American bands copying the Brits, it’s comforting to see some trans-Atlantic cross-pollination from time to time. Like their Welsh brethren in Mclusky, Newcastle’s YCNI:M have enlisted Steve Albini and made a record that pulls heftily from American indie heavyweights like Fugazi and At the Drive-In – on the surface at least. Upon further listening, though, both a refined melodic approach and a deft reverence to Brit shoegazers of yore smacks you in the chops. Word is that the band is currently finishing up a full-length with 90s super-producer Flood. One to watch.