There’s a steely edge to “We Who Are” that sets it apart from the pack of ’60-influenced Paisley revivalists and winkle-picker wearing pretenders. It’s apparent in the uncompromisingly serrated fuzz tone of Alessandro Cozzi-Lepri and the economical and direct songs this trio writes.The Embrooks honed their distinctive sound at London’s legendary Toe Rag Studios, a treasure trove of vintage EMI equipment and home to everyone from Billy Childish to The Datsuns, the White Stripes and Holly Golightly. “We Who Are” was worked up in the determinedly analogue North Down Sound Studios in Kent and doesn't suffer one bit for its relatively new surroundings. It's eight-tracks all the way.
"We Who Are" is all original, save for the high-octane cover of The Searchers' “Have You Ever Loved Somebody”, and tempers the fuzz attack with a some Byrdisan janglers (“Human Living Vampire” and “Til Tomorrow”.)
The harmonies of Cozzi-Lepri and bassist Mole straddle many of the songs. Occasional organ fills out the trio's sound. There's even an odd appearance of flute just to colour things (most noticeably on the fuzzy and monstrously good “Riot on Kingsland Road”.)
"Hang Up" shows no such thing as far as pedals are concerned with its wall of fuzz and emphatic wah wah work. "Going But Not Gone" is a bustling album opener but The Embrooks save one of their best till last with the explosive rave-up of "You Can If You Want" where a river of fuzz and Lois Tozer's propulsive drums carry the day.
Is it14 years since their last album? If only every reformed band from two decades ago could sound this fresh.
1/4
