Whilst the accompanying information that this album arrives wrapped in alludes to a real D.I.Y. birth, the songs have a simple infectiousness and seductive nature that overpowers such humble beginnings. In fact, it brilliantly reminds us, in its own, indirect way, that it is not the kit, but the concept that matters; a great song will always work on a battered old acoustic guitar, and a song that relies on substance rather than style will remain such no matter how much money, gimmick, gizmos or marketting budget you throw at it.
“Won’t Wait Forever” kicks things off as a straightforward, groovesome, and addictive song. I love the blend of vocals here, the more expected sound of Ratfink! ‘s indie voice juxtaposed by the most emotive and gorgeous female counter harmonies, courtesy of his musical partner in crime, Liv. Man, after all the talk of this being done on the cheap, I didn’t expect to encounter anything so beautiful.
“Stevie” is a hushed and humorous slice of bedroom indie, wonderfully unpolished, digitally driven yet with a gently ornate blend of guitars, “Plastic Bits” grooves and growls in equal measure, “Euphoria” is a brilliantly subdued and seductive (hey, that’s twice I’ve used that word, there’s a reason for that) indie-folk duet and the single, “Gay Song” is poignant, powerful and perfectly timed for our age, a time when gender issues are now becoming public conversations.
This, I have to admit, was an unexpected experience. The songs are deeper than you might have thought, and perfectly crafted, too. If, as the saying goes, people cut the cloth to fit the suit, that is, use what they have available to make their finished product, I would suggest that When U Were Mine would be a lesser sonic beast if Ratfink! had more money, more resources to work with. It is the understatement that creates the charm, and this is an album that is nothing if not charming.
Even if one of the big labels sees its way to throwing unlimited money at you for the next release (and it could happen, nay, it should happen), never change what you do; it’s perfect the way it is! Less is more? Abso-flippin’-lutley!
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