Album Review: Dropkick

Dropkick- 'Patchwork' (Sound Asleep Records)

Dropkick specialise in the kind of breezy pop melodies that bring to mind the likes of Attic Lights and Teenage Fanclub. The band’s alternative-country sound is strewn with sing-alongs and they indulge in vocal harmonies that would make Brian Wilson blush. The prominent use of pedal steel guitars and banjo also lends a strong Americana feel to ‘Patchwork.’

‘Nowhere Girl’ opens things at a gentle pace, before the driving power-pop of the excellent ‘Breakdown’ kicks-in. There are cathcy hooks aplenty and a breezy vibe which is perfect for when the sun’s out. ‘Where I’m From’ revels in folksy sentiments as the banjo plucks away in the background and ‘Listen To You’ has some lovely harmonica flourishes. Title track ‘Patchwork’ also works well and has more of a power-pop element to it than, say, the relaxed country of ‘The State That Remains’.

‘Patchwork’ is certainly a strong collection of tunes, which could be down to the fact that the band features three songwriters- brothers Alastair and Andrew Taylor along with the unrelated Roy W Taylor. One of the best things about Dropkick’s sound is the quality of their harmonising vocals as all the band members possess strong, distinct voices.

This album may be a bit ‘folksy’ for some, but if you have a penchant for laid-back Americana then Dropkick are your band.

Check out Dropkick on their myspace