The Young Knives - 'Voices Of Animals And Men' (Transgressive) Released 21/08/06

The Young Knives seem to have quietly ascended into shining stars of the indie scene without a swagger, publicised feud or numerous magazine covers. Nope, if they walked past you in the street you probably wouldn’t notice. Their technique was the old fashioned route of gigging and gigging some more, topped with prolifically writing and recording material. Which means debut ‘Voices Of Animals And Men’ isn’t a collection of previously released EPs; nah, they have way too much to say. In fact, infectious numbers such as ‘Walking On The Autobahn’, ‘Kitchener’ and ‘Elaine’ aren’t included, and they still manage fourteen tracks.

'Voices Of Animals And Men' is a startling debut; resentment and frustration is neatly poured into taut pop songs with no attempts at epic spilling it over the edge. In these pop snobbery times we live in, ‘pop’ is seen as a dirty word. However, it merely refers to their sumptuous hooks and melodies that are commercially viable, in a style reminiscent to Gang of Four, packed with lyrics that make you smile or nod your head in agreement (both disturbing when sat on the bus at rush hour – try it!)

Truly gifted in their inspiration, first song ‘Part Timer’s' content (writer’s block when writing a song) might sound utterly pointless on paper; but with front man Henry’s frenetically delirious stuttering delivery and a musical breakdown that simplifies everything, reducing it to a primal boom before shredding through with angular guitars, it is far from it. We’ll call that The Young Knives Touch. ‘Decision’ follows with its’ delicious lyrics "I’m your monarch! I am your monarch!" the world of The Young Knives is laced with an edge of nihilism not seen on this scale since Punk reared its’ beautifully ugly head. However, the angular shrills, and surreal lyrics are rooted in post punk, the result is an articulate album filled with joyous tracks.