March 2, 2011

Album Review: Rival Schools - Pedals (Photo Finish/ Atlantic)

Out of hibernation and lost in the expanse of new sounds

6 / 10 Almost 10 years on from their cult masterwork ‘United By Fate’, Rival Schools have finally returned from an inexplicably long hiatus to demonstrate why they’re such luminaries for today’s post-hardcore hordes.

At the very least, ‘Pedals’ proves that frontman Walter Schreifels has retained his ear for a good tune; the likes of ‘Eyes Wide Open’ and the much gentler ‘Racing To Red Lights’ boast the sort of shimmering choruses that remind you why these New Yorkers once seemed destined to lead the hoodie-clad invasion of the mainstream.

But you can’t help but feel that ‘Pedals’ would be more of a big deal if it was still 2003.

Hardeep Phull

6/10

Order a copy of Rival School's 'Pedals' from Amazon

Rate this album

Average rating

To read all our reviews first - days before they appear online - check out NME magazine, on sale every Wednesday

For the latest music videos and backstage interviews, check out our sister site, NME Video.