It would be fair to say that Some Skeletons have endured an eventful time over the past few years. Switching from a four-piece to a trio in 2013, the writing and recording process for ‘Vigils’ was then delayed significantly when their drummer James was knocked off his bike by a car. Although ‘Vigils’ takes the form of a concept album, it reflects the strength that Some Skeletons have that they pushed on despite such setbacks.
The concept involves a series of tales about a coastal town experiencing unexplained events during the 1990’s, and they’re set to a soundtrack of intricate and creative alternative rock that brings to mind Hundred Reasons and Brand New. The laidback start to ‘The Mouth’ gels neatly with the opening verse but the song itself is essentially an extended intro for the rest of the album and if it wasn’t for the overarching story it would feel half-finished. As it is, it helps sets the scene for ‘To Exceed, To Achieve’ which shifts between moments of melody and fragility on its way to a strong and uplifting chorus powered by strong riffs.
‘Indoor Meteors’ carries on in a similar vein, but with a bit more of a polished and radio friendly sound. Thankfully it doesn’t ditch the layers of creativity that Some Skeletons have already exhibited as it also contrasts gentle verses with more powerful guitar-based choruses. What’s apparent from the depth of ‘Vigils’ is that Some Skeletons never feel compelled to fill every song with an endless succession of riffs, nor do they rely on passages of melody and harmony to prop up the record. ‘Beach Party’ is driven and anthemic whereas ‘Up On The Rocks’ is brittle and reserved, but both are just as rewarding despite being very different.
However, it’s ‘No Respite’ that is arguably the best song on ‘Vigils’, as the songwriting puts it above the other high quality efforts. Emotionally raw without sounding clichéd, it’s three minutes that finds Some Skeletons at their focussed and expressive best. ‘Hi, Give Me Disease’ is much better than its song title might suggest, it’s a fresh and exciting effort that ties in well with the songs around it. ‘Rush For Mercy’ features a soaring melody that picks the song up after a slow start and once it hits its stride the familiar yet always rewarding combination of subtlety and power are almost unstoppable.
Far from following the template that has served British rock bands well recently, Some Skeletons continue to forge their own unique path. There are elements of other bands here it’s a varied set of influences. And as well realised as the concept is, the songs are just as good when taken separately. From the riffs that recall the likes of Hundred Reasons, to the finely balanced melodic passages, and the story that brings it all together it’s a natural and confident sounding début.
CHRIS HILSON