Young Welsh rockers, Catfish and the Bottlemen have released their second studio album, Ride. The four-piece indie-rockers have produced an 11 track wonder that is both relatable and mischievous – all in under an hour.
With major influences including bands such as The Killers (whom they brazenly admit to have a bit of an infatuation with), Oasis and The Libertines, Catfish and the Bottlemen still manage to keep a very distinct sound, true to that of their first album (The Balcony, 2014) while surprising and delighting with each new track. McCann’s charismatic, and often charming vocals are in full force throughout the 11 tracks, accompanied by some stand-out, edgy guitar solos, riveting hooks and a whole lot of energy that makes it hard not to sing along to.
Ride is produced by Dave Sardy (most famous for his work producing OASIS albums “Don’t believe the Truth”, 2006 and “Dig Out Your Soul, 2008 ) which meant the stakes were high for the lads. When asked about their producer, Dave Sardy, McCann said, “he’s a beast”. The band spoke openly on Triple J radio about working with him and how he had produced some of their favourite music through other artists, encapsulating just how much of an influence he had on them as a band.
Front man, McCann, when asked about his muse lyrically for the album, confidently explained “I can only write about real stuff”. Perhaps re-emphasising the relatable nature of the album, making life his muse. “I write honest stories about what’s happening in my life”, McCann stated in an interview.
Like every album, there are definitely some stand out tracks. Their single released a few weeks prior to the album, titled ‘7’, is undoubtedly one, appearing as the first track on the album (a prime choice). A tune that will no doubt have you hooked, with its infectious sound and clever lyrics.
‘Glasgow’, so named for it’s acoustic rawness, is a track that begs to be appreciated, one that urges you to listen to every softly delivered lyric, as you caress the edge of your seat (preferably with a red wine in hand). This track really strays from the rest of the album and separates itself from the rest of the reckless rock-vibe, Ride seems to be consumed by.
While the album seems heavily romanticised, many of the tracks are not actually about “love” at all. The track “Emily” (track 8) fronts as a potential “love song” and while it’s hard to not quietly swoon at the thought of this “Emily” being perhaps a love interest and expecting a ballad, McCann has confirmed, Emily is in fact just a friend. But the beauty of this album is that you can interpret it as you wish , love interest or not.
The album closer, ‘Outside’, is the longest track on the album, and perhaps has the most to offer. Ending on a high, ‘Outside’ poses as an alternative ballad, that eases you in, and than blasts you with a killer chorus that is so bitter-sweet.
Reckless-rock with a hint of that soft and sweet, indie vibe, makes it an ideal combination for those who have a genre crisis in the music category. The album is versatile, their canny lyrics keep the album from sounding generic, with lyrics such as “she said oxygen’s overrated, I don’t even need to breathe” really play on the bands Welsh charm.
