Blossoms’ self-titled debut album sounds like a well put
together Spotify playlist for a long car journey rather than a debut indie
record. As a five-piece, the lads from Stockport have an obvious knack for
tunes.
Named after a pub in their hometown, Blossoms have a
grounded understanding of what is happening around them with an enthusiasm that
is only found in new, young bands. In a recent interview, when asked about
supporting the Stone Roses, they couldn’t contain their excitement yet were
quick to refer back to where they have come from. The album follows suit. It is
a well thought-out, grounded record with good, poppy tunes.
‘Charlemagne’ is as radio friendly as it gets but it carries
a melodic line that you find yourself whistling to after just one listen. Even
though snyth-based hooks and catchy choruses seem to be the blue print of the
album, tracks like ‘Texia’ and ‘Cut Me and I’ll Bleed’ prove that there is more
to Blossoms’ musical arsenal. These two songs shift the dynamic of the record
to a more New Order style ‘murder on the dancefloor’ aesthetic. Therefore
disproving some claims that the Stockport band aren’t daring or edgy enough.
There have been some ridiculous comparisons made between
Blossoms’ debut record and other bands of similar ilk. One in particular claims
that the inclusion of the piano led ‘Onto Her Bed’ and acoustic track ‘My
Favourite Room’ are there to copy the success Catfish and the Bottlemen had
with the same kind of tracks on their record. A quick google search disproves
this theory as the Stockport band have always included an acoustic, stripped
back song on every EP they have released. It would therefore make sense to
include this on their debut record.
When asked about their style of music, lead singer Tom Ogden
has made it no secret that along with bands like Oasis and Stone Roses, the
band grew up listening to artists like Abba. There is nothing wrong with pop
music when done in the right way. If anything, Ogden embraces the label of
being part of a ‘guitar-pop’ band. It can be as daring and cutting edge as the
rest. Just look at Abba - musical legends in their own right.
Blossoms’ debut album went straight to number one, so do you
really think they care if some critics claim they’re not edgy or cutting enough
to be a credible guitar band? I think not.
3.5/5
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