Whenever a band cites influences ranging from the eccentric and flawless Jeff Buckley to the clattering youthful DIY pop punk of Blink 182 you instantly hold an element of caution.
So many bands will name drop a plethora of varied influences on the Facebook bio pages these days in an attempt to garner some interest and intrigue.
Fair play, you really cannot fault it, even if it does digress from what the music actually sounds like.
This is 2013, the year of an over saturated music market, look beyond the passive and bland descriptions, though, and just that occasionally you will find some cracking tunes.
This so happens to be the case with Bathgate quartet Black Balloons, honing in with a bunch of songs that are pleasant on the ear but pack enough of a punch to bring you back for a second serving.
Right off the bat, let us get one thing straight the vocals and particularly the jangly guitars sound more akin to the View than Jeff Buckley.
These are pretty disposable tracks, take them at face value though and there is an incredibly fun and contagious listen to be found.
‘Follow Me’ for instance would be an absolute belter to witness live, while ‘Pills’ enthrals through a well driven set of minor chords and simple melodies.
There are times when the vocals need to peel back and negate from forcing out notes that do not compliment the compositions.
‘This House’ for example becomes a little enduring on the ear due to the nauseating and nasal manner of singing.
Thankfully, though, over the piece this is a strong release, Black Balloons have released something that while not wholly original or without flaw, comes with plenty of promise and potential.
Words: Chris Kelman
