Some of the most gifted and talented artists face rocky times before they hit the jackpot. The Leicester-born British band has weathered turbulent waters since their first self-titled LP in 2004. Despite the departures of integral band members (e.g., their lead guitarist and bassist), the UK lads have licked their wounds and could deliver a potential blockbuster hit with The West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum. Kasabian have come close to reaching perfection as the band continues to dazzle their fans with their vibrant mix of techno and guitar rock that borrows from a myriad of influences from The Stone Roses to the electronic outfit The Chemical Brothers.
Fast-Fuse is a psychedelic rocker, sporting feverish guitar clangs and lead vocalist Tom Meighan provides his best impersonation of Liam Gallagher (of Oasis fame). The Blokes new “single-in-the making” describes what may be a bunch of hooligans living the lime life before they are caught red-handed.
Vlad The Impaler is born to be a stadium rock anthem that incorporates propulsive electro-chimed drumbeats and menacing guitar riffs from Sergio Pizzorono. The Brits may be offering a commentary on their own celebrity status or writing what should be the opening song for the HBO hit Entourage. The track is filled with infectious grooves and ultra-catchy lyrics. All my friends are as sharp as razors, cut you down if you touch the faders. High-class girls hung in elevators. Now we have got the floor.
Swarfiga could be paying tribute to the techno remixer DJ & Producer Welsh-native Lincoln Barrett (aka High Contrast) with this drum-n-bass infused instrumental that belongs on your mixtape as you're cruising down the highway to your next weekend party. It’s only missing one key ingredient – lyrics!
Kasabian serves up their best impression of George Harrison and the Beatles with the acoustic and luscious string ballad, West Rider Silver Bullet. The band members croon about leaving behind a loved one while on a soul-searching mission. This track would sound sublime in a live concert venue.
West Ryder Pauper is currently receiving rave reviews in Great Britain as it has reached number one in the UK Top 40 charts in mid June. The band offers up their most complete album to date, mixing classic rock with modern techno electronica. Spend your hot summer nights with Kasabian’s new LP, which should cause a symphonic firestorm around your home stereo system.
Grade: A-
Download Right Now: Fast Fuse, West Rider Silver Bullet
In The Spotlight: Kasabian-Underdog (From The West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum)
