Our Lost Infantry - The New Art History (Deep Elm)

Over the last year or so, the long-running Deep Elm label has quietly transformed into a label that offers the world some potent atmospheric rock, finally shaking off that emo stereotype that unfairly pigeonholed it. Their latest signing, the British Our Lost Infantry, makes an interesting point of reference; while exciting and new and epic like current bands Again For The Win and The Dandelion War, they are also a band whose sonic lineage can be traced back to former Deep Elm flagship band The Appleseed Cast. But the band’s debut album, The New Art History, isn’t a mere retread of past glories, though. Our Lost Infantry make rock that is BIG, and lead singer Thom Ashworth has a powerful voice that can handle the overwhelming melodies. They offer up powerful, anthemic songs like “Fearless” and “Howl” alongside pretty, delicate songs like “The Hollow” and “Kenning.” Like many bands, they save the best for last; “Day After Day” blends their gorgeous, delicate side with their rock anthem side, and it demands to be heard in a live setting. An impressive debut, The New Art History is how a debut album should be: potent, powerful, and addictive.