Another regular mid-table, 70s influenced, band, this
mirrors Wolfmother’s Victorious in many ways. Gloriously similar to what they’ve done
before, but with more consistency and an overall increase in the quality of the
song-writing. Unarguably brilliant
live. Album number 4, the best since
album number 1. But there are
differences too: Band Of Skulls are
more noticeably blues influenced, and the addition of female vocals changes
the dynamic. There are also a few unexpected
twists here. ‘Tropical Disease’ reminds me of some of the tracks on Dave Grohl’s ‘97 Touch soundtrack, while both ‘Erounds’ and ‘Something’ move from
70s to 80s in structure and style (the former through classic rock, the latter through
thoughtful ballad). Like Wolfmother, Band Of Skulls have a formula and execute it
outstandingly. But, for the first time
in a while, By Default also demonstrates a
more adventurous streak. Every song is great, and if you liked anything they ever did before, you’ll like this too. If not, go buy their debut, Baby Darling Doll Face Honey.
sample track: Black Magic