Following on from their infectious single Smooth Sailing, Lancaster psychedelic rock band Lady King & The Aces deliver a full-length album of unexpected gems, and further underline their genre-fusing creativity and passion.
Beginning with the quirky contrast of funky psych to full-throttle rock that is Thrills, the album is quick to assert its confidence and authenticity as pure indie rock. Soaring riffs, psychedelic twists, smooth vocals and crisp rhythms, all present a jazz-like fluidity, but with a clear and interesting structure and set-up.
The track takes us back to the playful indie rock bands of many eras, from sixties rock and roll to Incubus, in my view – there’s so much artistry and enjoyment at the helm, and this opening song speaks volumes on behalf of that.
Ten original tracks make up this self-titled album, with anthemic rock songs like The Chase, Pretty Ruthless, and Take Me Home raising the energy and presence brilliantly. Then elsewhere, we get moments of essential contemplation – a level of versatility that seems to surprise, but which connects and impresses all the more so.
Consider the mellow keys and warmth of an intimate I’m Coming Over, or the confronting and bluesy All in My Mind – a wave of jazz seeping through, and plenty of instrumental space for the groove to work its magic.
There’s also something soulful and mighty achieved with the meandering energy of On Your Go, both gentle and boldly anthemic, almost punk-rock-like at its peak. And later, for the sensational Tell Myself – the guitar solo, the breathy voice, the story and sentiments, all creates another profound moment of immersive, pure soul-rock escapism.
Lady King & The Aces whole-heartedly engage with the music, and in turn, the music engages its audience.
Cascading voices, changes in tempo, stories that intrigue and bleed truth into the space – alongside moments that simply make you want to dance your troubles away. It’s a fascinating, enjoyable and rewarding album, from a band who consistently keep listeners on their toes, and whom prove both surprising and entertaining, through the talent, versatility, and depth of this album.
Find Lady King & The Aces on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube.
