The Bastard Sons – Smoke

Smoke is a brilliantly energetic release. Keep an eye on these boys, they’ve definitely proved where there’s Smoke, there’s fire

Smoke, The first studio release from these York lads is a bit of a mixed bag with The Bastard Sons   showcasing a multitude of talents. The opening track, The Bastard serves its purpose well. This track is full of raw, punky energy that instantly hooks the listener, inviting them for more. Release The Hounds has a slight lull in the initial energy, but this is quickly brought back and turned around with a melodic guitar solo followed by a climactic build up towards the end. The second track flows seamlessly into the third – A Lie is a Lie transitions well from its predecessor, with a catchier chorus that sets it apart from the track before. There comes a huge turning point with the arrival of Sobre La Muerte II, and it’s really appreciated how they chose not to continue with the constant punches demonstrated during the beginning of the album. This song is broken down, stripped back and provides a little respite for the listener before approaching a heavier climax.

The Bottom of The Ladder brings back the energy and then some. Jumping straight in at the deep end, there’s no messing about with this track as it keeps you hooked on a new-found groove. Continuing with this groovy tangent, I’m Only A Call Away marks the middle of the album as guttural vocals bring a more metal vibe to the sound, as we roll into U.S Against Them – a cracking gem nestled between two bangers. Short and sweet, this punky little number throws yet another dynamic into the album. Listen Here certainly got me listening. A rising build-up to a fast-paced, melodic riff consequently offset by groove. The general energy of the album feels like it’s worked up to this point with its aptly named track. Cardboard Walls is the 9th track on this album, and there is nothing flimsy about this, despite the title. Like a couple of the songs before, there’s a nice, groovy intro with a catchy, punky chorus tying the whole song together, rounded off perfectly with the addition of undertones of angry vocals. Scenic Roots has so much going on, it sounds as technical as a long-established band on perhaps their 5th album, but with the energy of an underground, unsigned band. An impressive contribution for a band on its first album.

Again, we are taken back to basics with the arrival of the penultimate track on this album. Stay True, featuring Davey Richmond of Glamour of the Kill is another breather for the listener. Not what was expected from the GOTK frontman, nevertheless a cracking contribution that ties the album together nicely before its close. The album draws to an end with the arrival of Exist-Distance. This track sounds very similar to something Architects would be proud to release. The lull of the track before is soon forgotten with its catchy chants, clean chorus and delightfully chuggy guitar riffs, an excellent choice as a last song to leave the listener with.

Smoke is a brilliantly energetic release. Keep an eye on The Bastard Sons, they’ve definitely proven that where there’s smoke, there’s fire.

The Bastard Sons are:

JJ – Vocals
Alex – Guitar
Ollie – Guitar
Nath – Bass
Rich – Drums

Review by : Miley Stevens