Drummers are often the butt of many a joke referencing talent and creativity, they’re often overlooked but more often than not are actually the heart, the beat and the soul of any great band.
It’s therefore no surprise that even though Swanton Bombs are only two men they manage to produce quite a sound, mostly thanks to drummer Brendan Heaney’s immense presence.
‘Mumbo Jumbo and Murder’ is the debut album from the London based duo who’s motto must surely be ‘Less is more!’. Less instruments = more emphasis on the raw talent on show. Less self awareness = more time to focus on what really matters; the music. And finally, less experience (with both fellas only being the tender age of 20) = more tenacity, more adversity and more willingness to do things their way and no one else’s.
The album starts as it means to go on with the instrumental track ‘Swanton Bombs’ giving a great preview of the talent on show through it’s duration. ‘Who’s Asking’ follows from this and gives us the first taste of Dominic McGuinness’ vocals and lyrics. They’re of an acquired taste to begin with, sounding somewhat understated and raspy, but as the album progresses it becomes clear that the vocals compliment the tracks well and should not be the main focus when listening.
Next comes ‘Viktoria’, which will be the bands next single (released on February 1st). Although not one of my favourites from the album it’s easy to see why the band chose it as a single, the mixture of guitar riffs, drum flurrys and shouts of ‘Viktoria!’ should appeal to even the most cynical of listeners.
The best of what Swanton Bombs have to offer seems to be saved until nearer the end of the album, ‘Night Thought’ and ‘Sable’ take a more laid back approach (not near the end in the case of ‘Sable’) and offer a much needed change of pace to breaks up the pounding offered by most of the other tracks.
Unsurprisingly, the album doesn’t fade out to a whimper. Penultimate track ‘Fear, There and Everywhere’ continue in a similar vein to the proceeding ten tracks. ‘Thanks’, the albums final track, is possibly my favourite of the lot. It’s steady, simplistic opening is followed by a crescendo ending which encompasses Swanton Bombs perfectly.
In ‘Mumbo Jumbo and Murder’ Swanton Bombs have created an impressive debut which surely hails towards great things in the future, the band have more than justified their 10 acts to watch out for in 2010 feature from back in November. Overall the record breaks no boundaries but will be a solid addition to anyone’s music collection and offers plenty of replayability.
‘Mumbo Jumbo and Murder’ is released 15th Feb on Turnstile.
Swanton Bombs will be supporting the mighty Los Campesinos! through February and March, see the links below for dates.
