Issue 155

Album Reviews: May 2007

14th May 2007

The latest album reviews from Pete Hayman, and Roz Moger.

SEND AWAY THE TIGERS - Manic Street Preachers

Soaring higher than their musical peers yet again, the Manics return with an effort that will surely prove to be their best album since Everything Must Go, released over a decade ago.

Now amongst the elder statesmen of British rock music, Send Away The Tigers is about recapturing the youthful idealism and nihilistic energy that made this band one of Britain's biggest cultural icons.

And they've ditched the sports-casual look in favour of a uniformed, military approach which is when the Manics look their dominant best. It's a muscular display of intent very much of the opinion that this band still matter. And my, how they do!

Release date: 7 May
Label: Columbia

Pete Hayman

COLOUR IT IN - The Maccabees

Unique. Special. Endearing. Just three words you can throw into the mix to describe this Brighton five-piece. And this is their long-awaited debut, inspired by municipal swimming pools and romantic, retrospective glimpses of childhood. An absolute dream to hold onto.

Release date: 14 May
Label: Fiction

Pete Hayman

PUZZLE - Biffy Clyro

Biffy have become the band that everyone is talking about recently and their reputation is totally deserved. Puzzle is set to be the biggest buzz of their career. Listen out for some beautiful vocals from Simon Neil and impressive harmonies.

Release date: 28 May
Label: Weekender

Roz Moger

Waterfront Online