Let’s get this out of the way first: yes, Spy Catcher is made up of members of Gallows, Cry For Silence, etc etc etc, but the simple, blunt point of the matter is it doesn’t matter. Rock Is Cursed sounds nothing like any of those other bands. Without a doubt it has an existence all of its own. Don’t believe me? Give the opening title track a spin. Now tell me exactly where that Watford hXc sound is? Point proved.

The track ‘Rock Is Cursed’ actually has a hint of Manic Street Preachers about it. Not the head-up-you-own-arse pompousness of what that band became, more the accomplished rock act is once was. That’s what this five track E.P. is, accomplished rock music. It’s chock full of big riffs that drive each song forward with reckless abandonment.

Splattered throughout are moments of variety and intrigue. Some of the sounds on this recording make you wonder if effects pedals are being raped or some keyboards salesman turned up at the studio flogging his wears. ‘You Got Soul’ does in fact have a shed load of soul about it. It’s a bold, hearty number that steps away from your standard rock tune blueprint. ‘We’re In Pieces’ has a mammoth chorus that cannot fail but be lodged in your head for hours afterwards.

Then there’re Steve Sears’ vocals. A gravel rasp and a downright dirty feel hark back to the days of a Scott Weiland fronted Stone temple Pilots. It’s the perfect accompaniment to those rolling riffs and soiled sounds. Straight-up, down ‘n’ dirty rock ‘n’ roll.

So, why is rock cursed? “Being in a band ruins relationships, finances, socials lives, jobs…and we wouldn’t change it for the World.” Thank you Spy Catchers. DTA Music applauds you, sirs. More please.

http://www.myspace.com/spycatchers

Spy Catcher plays Watford Colosseum on 17 December 2009 alongside Gallows, None The Less and Blackhole.

Reviewed by: Alex Hambleton

» Return to Reviews