With the year coming to a close, the last of our ‘Best of 2011′ articles comes from Martyn Crocker of This Calamity.
“Crazy Arm’s 2nd Album “Union City Breath” is actually my 2nd favourite album of the year by any band in the world (My first being Thrice’s – ‘Major/Minor’). I’m equally proud and embarrassed to be so in awe of an album constructed by a band from the same town as myself. I really don’t think it’s normal to be such a big fan of an act that you can see whenever you want.
With this collection of 13 songs, the band have really pushed their sound to extremes – The rock songs are more driving, the acoustic numbers are more folky – there is a focus and overall completeness to this record that you’d be hard pressed to find from any other band so early in their careers. This is a rock album with integrity that should be on the tip of any alternative music fans tongue no matter what their tastes – there’s something for everyone here.
I challenge anyone to hear the album opener “…Of The Tarantulas” with it’s crackling beats, hints of perfect feedback and the addition of Patrick James Pearsons tantalizing organ sounds and not nod their heads and grin like an idiot.
The lyrics are incredibly political, current, passionate and intelligent and the accompanying sleeve notes really add to the whole of the record – this is actually an album worth buying in it’s hard form, rather than a cheeky download.
Peter Miles’ mix really brings this 50 minutes to life, it’s crystal clear but raw when it needs to be.
This record makes me air drum like a fool, raise my arm when I sing the words passionately and air guitar to every riff or lead line. It’s an album that makes me dance but also makes me think – this can only be a good thing.
I really can’t say enough good things about “Union City Breath”. Miss this one at your peril.”
Martyn Crocker (This Calamity)
Union City Breath is out now on Xtra Mile Recordings while This Calamity can be found at www.thiscalamity.co.uk
