The Gems |
There’s something slightly fantastic about the song ‘Contact Everyone’, which opens this CD. It’s because it’s a blast of 100% energy, and even although the verse first sinks into a mid ’80s post-punk void, as soons as the chorus explodes again, it just blows away all thoughts of it sounding dated. Played and recorded as if it is the last song of a gig, it’s just an undeniable blast. ‘She Rang’ also emits a similar attitude with less of a grand prix speed, and weirdly falls into territory somewhere between The Cult and Idlewild. ‘She’s Alive’ almost ditches the punkier ethics, though, and at seven minutes long sounds like Interpol could do with the inclusion of more ’80s rock posturing, also with a touch of HiM's gothic cover of 'Wicked Game' throw in for good measure. So many bands are using that period as a jump off point currently, but at least The Gems clearly have a good grip on songwriting and sound like they’d put on a brutal live show.
Steven McCarron
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