Something 90s this way comes. Music, like fashion, is cyclical and it seems we’ve reached the point where the British music scene is looking back to Seattle, circa 1992. Though each added their own identity, bands like Hindsights (RIP) and Milk Teeth have an energy, sound and aesthetic that owes a mafia-size debt to Generation X grunge. Taking that fuzzy, organic sound and injecting elements of fun-loving pop-punk might sound like a risky strategy, but newcomers Glue Foot appear to have got their dosage just right.
Opener ‘Guilt Milk’ pulls a bait-and-switch by starting out like an unassuming, unimpressive low-fi ballad before exploding into a rocket-propelled chorus, and a verse driven by and unusual combination of grunge guitars and double-time drumming which perhaps shouldn’t work, but just does.
‘Silk’ is less impressive, though – its pure grunge sits somewhat incongruously aside the more uplifting material among which it’s nestled and its sleazy, distorted bass riff calls to mind Krist Novoselic – a dangerous game for any band to play with a track that only recedes further into Nirvana’s shadow.
Thankfully, we’re soon back on more interesting territory. ‘Floating Like A Leaf’ in particular throws up so many influences, with atmospheric guitars over a marching drum-roll – significantly stronger than so much else of the 90s revival.
‘Seed’ is a must-listen for anyone who’s intrigued by the 90s revival but wants something a little more accessible which doesn’t brandish so much as blend its influences. And Glue Foot get props for bringing back that other 90s staple, the hidden final track. A really promising collection of songs.
ROB BARBOUR