E.P. Review: The Indos- 50 Shades of Blue

E.P. REVIEW:

The Indos

 

50 Shades of Blue

9.4/10.0

50 Shades of Blue is available from 3rd November, 2014

TRACK LISTING:

3 Sticks of Dynamite- 9.4/10.0

Falling In and Out of Space- 9.4

Lovin’ You Was Easy- 9.4

She Drives My Gun Insane- 9.5

STANDOUT CUT:

She Drives My Gun Insane

GENRES:

Alternative, Indie-Rock

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Scotland is producing some of new music's finest acts.  The Indos are a band that do things differently; their music is that which lodges in the mind- and will not shift.  With upbeat melodies and everyman themes, 50 Shades of Blue has plenty of reflective heart- yet the abiding sense is of fun and hypnotic jams

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I was going to steer away from my diatribes regarding bands and band music…

But then a certain act has drawn me back in.  I shall introduce them soon, yet have been compelled to dive back into modern music’s band market- investigate the hot and the not-so-hot of the moment.  Royal Blood (technically a duo rather than a band) have been leading a charge; a few newcomer Indie groups have been sneaking in- mainly it is the solo artists that have been making the biggest impressions.  I am not sure why it is- I have postulated many times- the solo acts tend to do better than bands; strike the hardest and provide the biggest range- and resonate longest in the memory.  This is true of the mainstream, particularly- if you survey the last few months, think of all the lone stars that have amazed.  Aside from one or two interesting-ish groups, there has been a huge discrepancy and unbalance- I am not sure why this is.  One settling and soothing thought comes when you look towards new music- there are no shortage of tremendous bands and fervent acts.  From all-girl Electro acts through to bearded Grunge warriors, there is not exactly a quality shortage- you can find exactly what you are looking for.  One of the fastest-growing genres is Indie-Rock- possibly the two most prevalent and synonymous words you can find in new music.  I am not sure what the overall percentage is- probably 50-60%- but a lot of new acts play in this particular field- the genre is one of the most elastic and least rigid in all of music.  The Indos have arrived at a particularly busy time.  In 2014, the world has been treated (or forced to witness) a huge raft of new Indie (and Indie-Rock) bands- all shapes and sizes have come through.  One of the most unsettling and disappointing things about the ascendency and proliferation (of Indie-Rock bands) is the lack of precise quality- most of the new breed are hardly world-beating.  There are a few reasons why my theory carries some weight: the sounds stick too rigidly to other bands (usually Arctic Monkeys) and lack personality; the range- across albums and E.P.s- is brief; other points comes to mind.  When I have investigated recent Indie-Rock bands, I am always left a little ambivalent- I would love one band to stick their hands down my trousers and give it a good rummage.  The likes of Royal Blood may be a tad derivative- too many Zeppelin/Queens of the Stones Age-esque riffs and moments- and a little overrated- you cannot deny how immediate, pummeling and gripping they are.  Too many fresh Indie bands are negating the importance of gravity and force- tending to come off as too weedy, sanitary and banal.  Before I continue on my point, let me introduce my featured act:

Born and bred in North Edinburgh, The Indos are an alternative rock band who take influence from the mod, pop and heavier rock that emerged from British rock bands of the 1960's.  Mixing a blend of heavy guitar driven tracks with more melodic songs the Indos have created a unique sound.  The current line up came together in late 2013 and have gone on to cement a reputation as a quality band on the Edinburgh live music circuit in 2014.”

Greg Atkinson - Drums/Jamie Gilchrist - Guitar/Backing Vocals Treadfast Johnson - Bass Guitar/Michael Knowles - Guitar/Lead Vocals/Dando Myrillas - Guitar

I am not saying every Indie-Rock band needs to start copying Royal Blood- it would make a change from all of them parodying Arctic Monkeys- but they could learn some lessons.  Currently in the grip of a White Stripes, Supergrass and Muse listening frenzy, I have been hooked and addicted by one thing- that element of fun and electricity.  Whilst Jack White may not strike you as the most jovial and clownish leader in music- albums like Elephant are masterpieces of substance, style and sheer wonder.  Supergrass’ early career dynasty is rife with hypnotic and fun-time brilliance- similarly, Muse have summoned up their fair share of divine smashes.  Too many sapling Indie-Rock bands are overly concerned with being inventive and emotional- the latter only comes off if you have genuine talent; the latter is a risky avenue to walk too heavily.  I am all for balance and emotional levity in music, but I fear the spark, sex and swagger is fast fading- there are acts that are making sure the light does not extinguish for good.  The Indos are one of the bands that are keeping the sweat and tongue-poking adventurousness where it should be- firmly in the cheek(s).  Their debut offering has been stunning and seducing critics- over a month before its official release.  A band that gives few tells and insights- their social media output is still growing and developing- they are letting their music speak.  Having been conversing with their manager- a good friend of mine- I know what a wave the boys are creating- the good word is being proffered far and wide.  It is not hard to see why the lads are salivating slacked jaws- their slices of primal and gritty Rock marries seamlessly with their own brand of introverted and nuanced emotion.  Our heroes are not merely contended to lazily knock-off the in vogue acts- replicate some third-rate Arctic chill; they are a bona fide band of unique insight.  They may be starting out into the big bad music world, yet their early profferings indicate serious intent- that could well parlay into long-term glory.  Their ingeniously-titled debut E.P. contains over four dozen shades of blue- a colour that is deeply suited to the Scottish clan.  Not only can they pull off inner emotion and sensitive reflection; they can lace smut and sexual longing into wonderfully choreographed and realised jams- that mutate into Blues-Rock shades.  Although their quartet of songs has been enflaming and exciting reviewers and fans alike; they are a bit of an unknown quantity further south.  When new bands come along, it can be a tremendous task (making sure they get due recognition)- promotion, publicity and the like can be an exhausting endeavor.  While social media can help a lot- and local word-of-mouth is a useful tool- it is down to listeners and new fans to help get the word out.  I hope The Indos see their stock rise and explode- they are one of few new bands that are instilling and reintroducing the almost-forgotten flair of Rock.  Time will tell just how far the fellas will go- I am sure they will be festival headliners before you can blink.  There are not many musicians that come out of the blocks with as much fire, passion and distinction- ensure you become acquainted with a band that have no intention of remaining local and clandestine.

The Indos boys are starting out in the music world- taking those first steps into the arena.  For that reason, it is hard to see how they have developed- look at their past work.  On YouTube, you can hear some rough demos and snippets- indications of evolution and progression.  If you have been fortunate enough to track the lads since their inception; witness them as they take their songs on the road- it is hard to see just how much they have improved.  From reading live reviews; fan comments and the like, it is evident The Indos have made some strides- grown in confidence and passion.  The songs- on 50 Shades of Blue- highlight just how intuitive and natural the boys are- their recorded cuts have a great live sound without coming off as bare and unprofessional.  It will be fascinating to see how the band grow and mutate- if they will launch an album; retreat maybe and hone their live sound.  From what I hear, they are a pretty reputable name on the road- deftly able to seduce and entrance all sorts of crowds.  What I would expect is for more music to be on their mind; they will be planning future singles- maybe an E.P. for some time next year.  Over the course of a quartet of songs, Edinburgh’s Indos are sure to get tongues wagging.  Even though their E.P. is not unveiled under November, I know there is a lot of demand- the early buzz has been positive and universally positive.  Personally, it would be great to see the band develop a full L.P.- expand their sound as much as they can.  At the moment, it is best to keep grounded and realistic- concentrate on the band’s current work.  Unlike a lot of their peers, our boys do not suffer from lack of invention and quality- they have enough potential to suggest some very endeavoring future movements.  It is clear 2015 will provide multitudinous possibilities and chances; the lads will be getting gig requests and some great demands- I am sure the group will be coming out of Scotland and taking their sound on the road.  One of the most frequent things I hear is from various acts and artists- claiming their fan base do not extend to the southerly regions (and cities like London).  This conundrum and aliment may be because (the acts in question) do not have a varied and popular sound; perhaps they are not putting themselves out there- London and the like are waiting to witness special and striking music.  I feel The Indos will not have to wait too long until they are called down here- the crowds of London are likely to eat up The Indos’ brand of stirring music.

The Indos themselves are pretty coy- when it comes to listing their influences.  Every band and act is compelled by others- some obviously so; other less.  The Scottish five-piece are pretty hard to tie with any others- nothing glaring presents itself.  There are embers of other acts here and there; shades of the odd familiar sound- by-and-large the boys keep things fresh and original.  What you find with the band is their need to distinguish themselves- come across as their own men.  Plenty of energy and innovation comes out in their music; muscle and energy is all evident.  Rather than lob other bands and artists their way; try and find out which acts make them tick- it is best to look at the components that go into their music.  The rampant and youthful sense of swagger has hallmarks of the current Indie-Rock explosion, in addition to hallmarks of the Britpop uprising- the bands and masters from that time have made an impact.  The Indos draw in elements and sounds of their local streets; the local bands to them- combining those sounds with some classic elements.  Energy and passion are as evident as nuance and consideration- the quintet have a keen ear and eye for balance and pace.  Their music does not stick rigidly to a particular sound or direction; it does not cling to predefined models and expectations- there is elasticity, surprise and huge mobility.  What The Indos’ E.P. offers forth is a brilliant mix of contemporary, classic and personal- few modern acts take the effort to blend these considerations.  The darlings and champions of the current scene lean too heavily on obvious avenues; narrow their ambitions and come across as too obvious and predictable- The Indos are not going to settle for any of that.  If you are looking around for similar acts and artists- that could have inspired the boys- then it is best to listen to the bands of Edinburgh- the young and established attists that dominate the hearts of the city.  While most contemporaries are inspired by the Artic Monkeys and Oasis’ of the world; our five-piece are less predictable and stifle- there is a concerted effort to stick in the imagination and present music that is hard to compare (with anything else).

3 Sticks of Dynamite begins less with a triple bang- but a slinking and sensual Blues lick.  A lascivious and too-cool-for-school swagger greets the track.  The riff is infectious and finger-clicking; bubbling and sizzling- remaining Blues-infused and ice-cool.  Joining the fray is percussion which crackles and snaps- the twin pillars give the opening moments a huge weight and glorious architecture.   In fact, the entire band combine wonderfully in the introduction- you can hear each player and element come together to create something rousing and uplifting.  When our hero walks to the microphone, his voice is firm and determined.  It would only take three sticks of dynamite to wish his life away- blow apart everything he is.  The lines and thoughts are not delivered with overt sadness and anger- there is a relaxed and matter-of-fact sound to the vocals.  Having lived a hellaciously busy and fun two decades- playing “broken records” and playing in a band- our man is going to end it all with a bang.  The song grips you from the off.  Not only can you detect a very clear accent come through- few Scottish bands actually sound Scottish; they tend to turn to England or the U.S. for vocal inspiration.  The other striking point is the words themselves- what they mean and what has inspired them.  It is clear our hero has worked hard and seen a lot- struggled and battled in the music world to make things happen.  There has been strain and repetition; some hardships and pains- you know just how much it all means (to him).  The dynamite fuses are lit- but burning low- and (old records are sounding the same)- there is some fatigue and dissatisfaction lurking in the midst.  Perhaps the past has seen our hero (and his band) not get their recognition- perhaps they have felt isolated and balkanised.  There is a determination to make things right; claim glory and change things up- get the just rewards (that he has been working hard to obtain).  The band combines seamlessly to summon up quite a mood; the festival of sound is entrancing.  Our hero is playing and not complaining- he needs to make some plans.  Life is going well; not quite as good as it could be- that essential bang is needed.  The frontman is putting an end to games and shenanigans; the dynamite is lined up and the potential is all there- this song is the declaration of what is to come.  As the song comes to its end, you start to sing along and become caught up- the chorus especially is addictive and highly memorable.  Although the track is a relatively short and concise one, it manages to pack in a lot of punch- without throwing too much into the composition.  The words and refrains are those everyone- in the music world- can relate to- that needs and desire to change things and follow dreams.  Following on from this empathic track is Falling In and Out of Space.  Twanging and low-down bass notes get the song underway- there is a slight Grunge sound to the initial notes (sounding a bit like Nirvana’s Stay Away).  From the opening track’s buoyant and compelling highs, here we have something more inward and dangerous- a sound that keeps the mind primed and ready.  Crackling percussion, spinning guitars; dizzying embers all combine (soon enough)- another stonewall gem is forthcoming.  Few bands manage to make their introductions stirring and memorable- The Indos have crafted a pretty awesome one here.  The boys tangle and merge to come up with something both melodic and hard-hitting- a line that gets inside your head and tantalises the senses.  Driving and pushing, our hero comes to the fore- alarm bells are ringing around his head.  Our man does not want to go to work; look at anyone’s face (you and me both)- that sense of fatigue and dissatisfaction are back.  From the opening salvo’s tales of ambition and musical imbalance; here we see that subject broach once more- the boredom of the humdrum; the need to do something more meaningful and passionate.  Like its predecessor, the track is sprite and catchy; it bubbles and dances- a sense of fun always shines.  When vocals are layered and combined, the atmosphere rises and swells- our hero is not coming to work; instead he is packing his bags- heading for a new land and place.  Running from the world, he is falling (in and out of space).  A song to move your feet, inspire the tongue- get the fists lifted- it is a compelling and seductive jam.  Sick of the same old routines and day-to-day, that unrest and annoyance is clear- who wants to be stuck in that rut?  Motivated and inspired by bigger ambitions, our hero is escaping his job; fleeing and hitting the road- you can hear that relief in the vocal performance.  The entire band are magnificent and magnanimous throughout- the playing is exemplary; the support just right.  No player wanders or hits too hard; there is a real sense of balance and unity- the composition is a busy and catchy diamond.  Cutting and slicing; upbeat and introspective, there are contradictions and mixed emotions- a full-bodied track that catches you off guard.  Not expecting such consistency and quality- from a new band- Falling In and Out of Space is one of the most true and relevant songs (the band has penned)- a track that resonates with almost all of us.  Past the half-way marker, Lovin’ You Was Easy promises something less work-focused- taking us into avenues of relations and love.  A typically impressive introduction kicks things off- that marries The Kinks’ You Really Got Me with embers of The Libertines.  Both light and sexualised, the guitar work is particularly impressive- when mixed with leading and driving bass, it is a stunning and exciting sound.  Displaying some sounds of ‘60s Pop, The Indos take their minds back to a better time (for music)- a song that is sure to draw in fans of this generation.  Our frontman recollects past times: when making plans and kissing (his girl); it seems that those times are still on his mind- the good times it seems.  In his dreams, our man adored his sweetheart- things have now changed.  The walls have caved in; the situation has changed- our man is imploring his girl to go; to get out of his thoughts.  Although it was easy loving his girlfriend- you can imagine why- there has been a fall-out and seismic shift- whether a rift has separated them (or boredom has set in)- you cannot relive the past.  Once more, the Scottish quintet keep the atmosphere tight and upbeat- the vocal performance is engaging and stunning- the composition mixes shades of ‘60s Pop, ‘00s Indie and modern-day Alternative sounds.  The band themselves sound like no one but themselves- you would be hard-pushed to think of other groups (when listening to the song).  Dragged under by the waves of pressure, our hero is fighting the tide- trying to get some freedom and emancipation- for good reason.  His girl made his laugh and happy- and turned-on it seems- but never provoked and spiked his mind.  Perhaps a rudimentary and one-dimensional love, our man needs something deeper and more complete- maybe music can provide the necessary heal.  A short and staggering burst, the band grows with confidence and meaning-as each track unfolds.  Once more, the bass leads from the front- She Drives My Gun Insane has a clambering and sweaty early promise- something tongue-licking and charged comes out.  Although the mood is quite levelled and composed- you know something dirtier and sexual is pressing (underneath).  With a ‘60s head, the song has all the charm and captivation of the Power-Pop revolution.  Our hero lets his voice calm and soothe- recalling his girl and her healing spirit.  Our frontman is on his knees; buckled and hooked by his seductive lover- someone who is causing him all sorts of pleasures.  With a chorus that is as gripping and memorable as any, the song is a lofty and heady brew- one of the most positive and uplifting tracks (the band has produced).  Gone are the regrets and anxieties of modern life- here is something more contrite and impassioned.  The vocal is particularly stunning to hear- instilled with ample passion and pure conviction.  The composition is urgent and pressing- the band is at their peak here.  Hooked and gripped by the mellifluousness and calm of the song- you cannot help but picture the heroine.  An alluring and Siren figure, she has caused quite a ripple- our hero seems to be lost in the thought of her.  A song that is sure to be a sing-along festival favourite- it is the perfect way to end the E.P.  Not only does the track capture the imagination- it leaves you wanting more.  The band manage to leave mouths wet and waiting- there will be huge demand for new music.  Across four brilliant tracks, you get a great assessment of a very unique and impressive band- boys that have a big future ahead.  Having mined a sound and vein of music- that few other acts have stumbled upon)- I cannot wait to hear more from there.  50 Shades of Blue is certainly one of the most immediate and fully-rounded E.P.s I have heard all year- a scintillating and staggering debut.

Across the four tracks of 50 Shades’, the boys of The Indos manage to pack in a hell of a lot of effort and memorability.  I mentioned how original the guys sound; how few other acts come to mind- there is a true and endless sense that they are indebted to nobody.  Of course, there are some tiny shimmers of other groups (in some moments) but it is the distinct and unique voice that (makes the E.P.) such a winner.  No two songs (on the E.P.) cover the same ground- not in an obvious way- so the listener is always treated to something new- the band manage to retain their core and key sound without compromising anything.  Whereas a lot of Indie and Rock bands possess limited flexibility and surprise, The Indos are relentlessly fresh and innovative.  Buoyancy, fun and energy goes into the E.P.  Each of the songs manages to get you up to your feet; there is danceable and merriment to be found- enough introspection and emotion nestles beneath the notes.  Before I recommend and congratulate the players (involved), it is worth summarizing 50 Shades of Blue.  It is an E.P. not quite as saucy as its title suggests; not as dark and depressed- there are ample shades of red, yellow and…well, every other colour you can think of.  Being a Scottish band, there is grit and fight to be heard; brave attacks and natural spirit- an incredible musicianship that never relents.  The songs have the potential to translate into the festival circuit; enflame and rouse legions of fans- there is a catchiness and addictiveness that never lets go.  Greg Atkinson leads a percussive assault that adds vibrancy and hard emotion.  Tuneful and composed the one moment; determined and swaggering the next- he adds an elementary and firm backbone.  Never allowing his performances to become too intense or needlessly reckless, the drumming is sturdy, impassioned and playful- matching whatever is being projected in the foreground.  When songs are fun and charming, Atkinson is up to the task- when more inward and angered, he is capable of summoning up the mood.  A lot of drummers- in other bands- tend to get pushed into the back; left to keep time and do their thing- never really allowed to shine and come up front.  The Indos have a democracy that means Atkinson is on a level par; he is given an equal vote and allowed to flourish.  Because of this, there is an effortless and breeziness- that results in some consistently stunning and powerful performances.  Jamie Gilchrist provides backing vocals and guitars- blending in perfectly and inputting an enormous amount of weight and authority.  His guitar work has all the sensibilities and trademarks the modern music listener demands: power and pace; surprise and unpredictability; unique ideas and ideals; passion and flair aplenty.  Hypnotic and gripping when required, the strings bleed and echo- when the emotions are more settled, it is tender and softer.  The entire band are tight and impressive throughout; Gilchrist is one of the most natural-sounding and assured guitarists on the scene- his inimitable vocals blend perfectly with the hero.  Treadfast Johnson is the bass king and guider- the one responsible for leading the songs and keeping everything focused and controlled.  Lyrical and melodic; fervent and spiraling- Johnson has his own personality and way of doing things.  A great percentage of bands are not noted for their bass work- it seems to be a minor facet that is overlooked.  If you look at all the great and most varied bass players- everyone from Kim Deal to Paul McCartney- they are synonymous with their personal approach and styles.  The Indos are lucky enough to have a player that does not put in the bare-minimum- he puts in a solid shift.  Possessing a lot of different shades, layers and approaches, Johnson is the consistent and reliable heartbeat of the band.  Dando Myrillas adds to the guitar army- leveeing in his strings and ensuring the force and majesty never drops.  A captivating and intuitive performer, Myrillas is responsible for a lot of the E.P.’s most uplifting and memorable moments.  50 Shades’ contains a great amount of spoil and tussle; the energy and swing never lets (its grip go)- the stunning and authoritative guitar work is synonymous and radiant.  Adept at conjoining with his cohorts, or else going out alone, the guitar work is endlessly nuanced and fascinating- retaining a unique voice and original intent.  Too many Indie and Pop/Rock bands throw guitars in the mix to make noise and commotion- there is little consideration toward rhythm, style and diversification.  The Indos’ sound is one built around movement and addictiveness; potency and pride- they are a band that have few equals.  Michael Knowles is the voice behind the songs- the man that gives life to the lyrics.  Playing guitar- as well as singing- the hero has a very particular voice- you can hear the native accent come out.  Not willing to Americanize the tones; mimic any other singer- Knowles retains his natural voice; making the sounds and sensations that extra bit special.  Filled with energy and passion; hard intent and sexuality- with every other emotion nestled in- he is one of the most mobile and wide-ranging singers about.  Never succumbing to overt wailing or whining, every note and vocal is assured and controlled.  Not a preening and copycat singer, Knowles puts his all into the performances- a leader that is led by his own instincts and ideas.  The lyrics (throughout the E.P.) do not keep their mind in one particular area- there is plenty for everyone.  Most bands- who play in the same genre- over-personalise things and tend to put too much of themselves into tracks- that revolves around broken love and fractious break-ups.  The Indos have a greater depth which means songs go to the streets; they go behind closed doors- there is story and filmic quality in their rhymes and couplets.  The abiding take-away (from the E.P. and band in general) is fun and catchiness- anthemic luster and glorious tunes.  The E.P. is going to be one that will see the boys in greater demand- there are plenty south of Scotland that would be clambering to hear The Indos.

I have probably expended and exhausted every adjective (to describe The Indos).  In the music scene, the avid- and short-sighted- listener is always looking for something new and fresh- damned by any samey and predictable act.  Music is about as gender-blind as any industry out there.  I am finding myself more impressed by female solo acts more than any (style and form of music/genre).  It is the invention, individuality and personality that compel me- that vocal balance of sweet and powerful.  Male bands are more widespread and common (than female ones) and as such, are in my thoughts- I find that too many bands are stale and lack necessary invention.  As I type, I am listening to Royal Blood’s south coast blend of primal riffs- there is something troubling about their rise to prominence.  Although I was one of the first reviewers to feature them, I think they have room for improvement.  From the opening riff of the lead-off track, there is a sense of disappointment.  Whereas some bands have a unique and distinct voice, Royal Blood seem too much a conglomeration of other acts.  The voice and riffs of Jack White come out; the anger and staccato beats/guitars of Rage Against the Machine are evident.  Throw in some Beastie Boys attitude, Artic Monkeys swagger; Queens of the Stone Age sensations- with a dash of Led Zeppelin into the mix- and that is Royal Blood.  It is impressive that they instill the memories of some of music’s greatest ever artists, but you have to wonder: how hard is it to do; where is the originality?  When their second album arrives, the public- and reviewers like me- will want to hear something that is THEIRS- sounds that break away from copycatting and mimicry.  Regardless, there is a desperate need for originality and difference- acts that possess huge quality, yet do so in their own inimitable style.  The mainstream throws up few worthy examples- new music is where the quality is being found.  The Indos are one of a small group of acts that manage to pack an immense amount of wallop (into their songs) and never really lose focus and momentum.  Their 50 Shades of Blue may be the first step (of many), but it is clear the boys are not in it for the short haul- you know that they want to be owning festival stages very soon.  Without succumbing to histrionics and over-exaggeration, I am confident the quintet has a great future ahead of them.  The debut cut is the most important (for any musician)- the early chance to see just how good they are.  Whereas a sizeable chunk of new music is dominated by vague and homogenized Indie artists, there are bands that want to be different- keep shades of the genre without coming across as just like everyone else.  Slippery, sensual, sexy and salacious; hard, hormonal, hectic and huge- the guys manage to put you in the mood.  Their sounds are not merely point-and-shoot toss-offs- they have a flair and sense of intelligence few of their peers possess.  Nuance and credibility comes through in every moment; there is ample melody and layering- enough solid musicianship to please the snootiest of fans.  What the band’s E.P. provides is a glimpse into a hungry and eager clan- what is currently going through their mind.  It will be great to see where they go from here; whether 2015 will see another E.P. developed- or an album.  What I do know is the five-piece will be embarking on touring and gigs- getting their sounds out to the masses.  Based rather far north of London, I hope the lads get themselves down here- their music will find masses of loyal ears down my way.  Employing some of the magic (of music’s finest acts), I have been left deeply impressed (by The Indos).  If the group comes play London I will be sure to come and see them- reviews suggest they are a formidable live proposition.  I will end the review with a final point- something that will always bother me.  With the mainstream producing mixed results and fly-by-night heroes, eyes are naturally cast towards the new- and underground—generation of musicians.  From the fire and fuel of expectation come some rather limp and lukewarm embers- artists that lack necessary attack, memorability and talent.  The flipside to this issue is the ability to locate the truly great acts- sift through masses of acts and discover the best out there.  Perhaps these quandaries will never been eradicated and resolved; there will always be discrepancy and problems- so long as bold and distinct acts come through, we need not worry (too much at least).  When 50 Shades of Blue drops- in November- ensure you investigate it in full; follow the band now- on Twitter and Facebook- and immerse yourself in their striking brand of sounds.  They may be taking their first small steps into the wide music world, but they will be making big strides too- expect to hear a lot more from the Edinburgh brotherhood.  Across a quartet of tight and stunning tracks, the band has laid down a marker- a challenge to their contemporaries and colleagues.  With originality and distinction fading from music, it is pleasing to see a band that owes little debt to others.  As was said- about Royal Blood’s debut- that debt can be written off when there is plenty of fun (to be found).  The Indos manage to keep the fun and frivolity afloat; they tussle and hustle with determination- catch you off your guard on several occasions.  If you want an anecdote to the endless parade of faceless acts; those new artists that provide little tantalisaton- check out The Indos.  Their best days may be in the future, yet all the evidence and potential is here.  Their train has left the station with furious speed and steam-spewing pace.  Make sure you do the smart thing and…

JUMP on board.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCgJtVSibL4&w=560&h=315]

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SoundCloud:

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The Indos’ videos available at:

http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUI5nTaecJ3NsEXtJyvD-eg