“Me & the Skirts”
from the album Exhibit A
2004
iTunes
The Features is as hyped as a young child under the influence of a concoction of raspberry cordial and candy. Kings of Leon herald them as their “new favourite band” and handpicked them for a tour last summer. Journalists are swarming over their debut release Exhibit A. Listeners worldwide have confirmed that The Features have produced a swashbuckling occasion that rivals the recent flood of new bands. Whether you choose to believe the hype or not, there is no doubt that this album should be heard, whether it be on the basis of interest or recommendantion.
Opening and title track, “Exhibit A,” immediately showcases this boisterous raucous of music thats so abruptly taken the industry into its delicate palms. Fast-paced guitar and drums, additional keyboard moments and that popular usage of the loud/quiet structure. It’s hard to pinpoint specific examples to describe Matthew Pelham’s vocal style, the best comparison or hybrid I managed to construct, was a cross between Caleb Followill (Kings of Leon) and Tim DeLaughter (the Polyphonic Spree). Nevertheless, this track is one of the best on the debut, and a ripping song in its own right.
“Me & the Skirts” is a sea-worthy jig if you’ve ever heard one. It’s namely the keyboards that instill this thought, and “Blow It Out” would fit snuggly onto any Weezer record, it also containing an anthemic chorus, in respect to karaoke style sing-alongs: “If you’re happy and you know it, Turn the volume up and blow it out.” “Leave It All Behind” is yet another diamond in the hidden treasure chest of the Features’ compositions. The chorus persisting as the songs most favourable quality, featuring much loved woah-oh’s. “The Idea of Growing Old,” one of the more slower paced tracks on the album, shines just as brightly as the adrenaline-fuelled songs and “Circus” once again exemplifies the bands affinity and skill for writing beat-driven, melodic tracks.
If this debut is any factor used in discerning the possible success of the Features, it certainly provides evidence enough to claim that this band will find success in their niché of the industry. Already boasting a large following from punters and bands alike, this band will soon be dazzled by the bright lights and neon signs on their road to fame. This debut guarantees to please those who appreciate some light entertainment, provided by a band with infinite skill in writing catchy pop tunes.