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Cross Rhythms Review

STYLE: Rock
RATING: 9/10
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 34523-13316
DISTRIBUTION: Independent
FORMAT: CD
DISCS: 1
This product is currently not available from Cross Rhythms Direct

Reviewed by John Baugh

Talk about not judging a book by its cover! A sleeve design that strongly suggests prog rock - you know, invading seafood, winged band logo, etc. But actually what you find inside is a great slab of the best sort of alternative rock - loud guitars, interesting chords, slightly punky yet quite tuneful. Not that the spirit of prog is completely vanquished; a bit like Radiohead these Heroes are not afraid to actually arrange and structure their songs with time signature changes and quirky moments - witness the almost operatic singing on the opening track "Visitors". And some of the tracks do go well beyond the three-minute pop song form. What I like here is that there is a sense of playing, grabbing whichever elements of music they like before doing what they fancy with it, seeing what happens, which is usually pretty good. Also as far as lyrics are concerned a certain intelligent and careful crafting is evident, which is always a hit as far as I'm concerned. So if you are in the environs of Dundee check out this hugely talented five-piece. Alternatively you can enjoy some of the tracks on Myspace, not to mention a slightly odd (in a good way) video introducing the band. Long live intelligent rock!

Daily Record Review

Whistle Binkies, Edinburgh

Wow! What's this? A band from Dundee who are actually rather good! Their sound is a cross between American New Wave of the early Eighties and the modern indie (think Snow Patrol). Its big and beefy sound and sometimes catchy - though they do, sadly, have a penchant for Bon Jovi.

'The Hills are Alive' and 'Holy Cow' were the top songs but, if this lot can shorten the length of their songs and tone down the self-indulgence, they might be on to a winner. Here's hoping. BARRY GORDON

IS Magazine Review

Brian Hutchison

Spanky's Heroes, The Westport Bar

When I was asked if I wanted to go and see Spanky's Heroes I really wasn't sure what I was agreeing to. The name suggests a Benny Hill style Spaghetti Western and a look on the Band's website gives you the impression that this is maybe something that they don't take all that seriously. With names like Sumo, The Duke, The Don, Waino Insano and Dangerous Dave, is it any wonder that I had my doubts?

As the not-so-dangerous looking "Dangerous Dave" emerged from behind his keyboard dressed in a Nun's habit, I was beginning to think that I should have stayed in and watched the "Take That" reunion show. Thankfully as the set kicked off I realised that whilst the image suggested that they are poking a bit of fun at the music industry, their sound is a lot more focused. Local lads from Dundee, they have kept themselves pretty busy gigging and recording, although this is the first time I have seen them live. They have all been friends from school and you can sense the boyish pranks and in-jokes that go on as they play.

They remind me a lot of the early Snow Patrol sound ("When It's All Over... and "Songs For Polar Bears"). Their low-fi guitar sounds, east coast vocals (don't write in, I know Gary Lightboy is Irish) and the general feel is very infectious and honest. Had there been slightly fewer people in the room I may have been tempted to slide across the dance floor on my knees in appreciation.

Their 5 track EP "Back To The Furniture" is surprisingly good. This is not just some ordinary run of the mill garage rock band, there's definitely something there. It sounds very raw, maybe a little rough around the edges at times, but thoroughly impressive. I was actually going to give it away in a competition, but I'm keeping it instead. The Heroes are currently unsigned and don't have any upcoming gigs listed on their website, but we will keep you posted.