From the bold solemnity and dubby beats of the striking opener ‘Photo Day’, it’s evident that the Yorkshire-via-Brighton jokesters KEG have experienced a significant evolution with their debut album. They have taken the audacious swagger of their earlier EPs and enhanced it with an unconventional blend of audacious indie and progressive art-rock. True to its semi-ironic name, ‘Fun’s Over’ is both sharp and unconventional, while also being strikingly sincere.
Grounded in an appreciation for classic British comedy, it features a few Radio 4-style sketches and nods to Peep Show quotes (“put it on the laterbase”). Alongside the band’s quirky songwriting, the clever lyricism of vocalist Albert Haddenham stands out. Whether exploring the scandalous infidelities in ‘Giving Up Fishing’, the effortlessly beautiful melodies of ‘Skybather’, or the more heartfelt ‘Plain Words’ (“Wait for the joke to land…nothing”), each well-crafted vignette carries a touch of bittersweet tragedy reminiscent of many great sitcoms: the little guy dreaming big yet always falling short of his ambitions.
Although KEG has always presented themselves as entertainers focused on spreading joy and enjoyment, ‘Fun’s Over’ reveals a band with considerable artistic aspirations. While the fun may be over, the celebration is truly just beginning.
Icelandic indie folk artist Arny Margret guides us through her deeply moving second album, ‘I Miss You, I Do,’ exploring each track. This work is intimate, delicate, and ambitiously bold, embracing a broader sound while maintaining its raw emotional essence.
Perplexing, struggling to establish its rhythm.
A monthly emphasis on the essential components of the exciting new music scene.
It may be a significant advancement for Cleopatrick, but they're just a few minor steps from achieving it.
A monumental work of art.
Playful, bold, and occasionally surprising, Addison Rae's "High Fashion" presents a unified glimpse into her artistic 'rebranding,' with lyrics centered around themes of luxury.
The enjoyment may have ended, but the celebration is only beginning.