We Were Promised Jetpacks
In The Pit Of The Stomach
Fatcat Records
This second album from Edinburgh quartet We Were Promised Jetpacks is aptly named; their aggressive brand of indie rock delivers a bracing blow. Predominantly up-tempo, and heavy on the drums, it鈥檚 perfect if you鈥檙e looking for something to energise you in the morning. Think Razorlight or Franz Ferdinand, then crank it up a few notches.
Those who prefer their music toned down and tuneful, though, may find the album a little too 鈥減it of the stomach鈥 for comfort. While things briefly take a gentler turn on Act on Impulse and Pear Tree, it鈥檚 never quite enough to allow you to catch your breath. Instead, you鈥檙e on a knife edge, waiting for the next crescendo of percussion and guitars.
Even fans of subtlety, however, will enjoy Adam Thompson鈥檚 lead vocals 鈥 textured enough to balance out the tempestuous backing 鈥 and the band鈥檚 growing reputation really speaks for itself. With a major UK tour in October, and having supported such big-hitters as Jimmy Eat World, they鈥檙e clearly a force to be reckoned with.
Grace Henderson