A reworked re-release, this, of Turin Brakes' summer 1999 debut. Initially, it could be mistaken for the sort of politely morose MOR than constitutes mainstream indie nowadays, but it's actually a paean to the perils of procrastination; shot through with a fear of making
a decision signified by a shredding, anxiety attack of bottleneck
guitar hanging in a wretched limbo. "I panic at the quiet times..."
So very true.
The B-sides show the band in their truer, stranger colours - 'The Boss', no rollicking tribute to Bruce Springsteen, rather a song with its nervous system turned inside out, spurting lactic angst every which way. By the time they've respectfully perverted Linda Lewis' 'Reach Out For The Truth' we're a long way away from where we started out. Turin Brakes are the quiet ones you have to watch.
David Stubbs
NEW! For the latest music videos and backstage interviews, check out our brand new sister site, NME Video.
- Previous Album Review : Burnt Friedman... : Plays Love Songs
- Next Track Review: Everclear : AM Radio
Comments do not always reflect the views of NME, or IPC Media, for guidelines visit our Ts & Cs page