It's only April and you're probably already tired of hearing about the 'next big things' in music. Toy Horses, however, are something else. This indie rock duo, made up of Adam. D. Franklin and Tom Williams from South Wales, release their self-titled debut album this month which is full to the brim with offbeat and loveable tracks.
The album kicks off with 'Play What You Want', a fun beat-driven song that sounds perfect for the summer. 'And It Was You' is a haunting number with lyrics that give a goldfish-bowl style look at the life of one man. It grows from a piano ballad to a psychedelic ending that works in some strange way.
'Sordid Little World' sounds like a mix of The Beatles and The Arctic Monkeys with a hint of the indie edge that set Toy Horses apart from the rest. Definitely one for the radio. One thing Toy Horses are experts at, it seems, is covering somewhat tragic lyrics with melodic tunes that create an interesting contrast, one that is visible in songs such as 'Damage Done' and the outstanding 'Loyal to the Cause'.
'Last Chance' proves the raw ability that is usually missing from albums like this, for those times when all a song really needs is a flawless voice and a guitar. Beautiful lyrics paired with passionate vocals make for a much needed heart-rendering ballad.
Adam's song-writing skills are nothing short of perfect on 'Love At An Arms Length', where the 60s sound works brilliantly to create a song that today's charts definitely needs. 'Oh Violet' is an intimate number that puts a modern twist on a thoroughly classic-brit-rock sounding track. Hearing this live would be an experience.
'No One's Ever Gonna Leave You' is the ideal indie-rock song; think The Libertines or Arctic Monkeys and then add the unique edge of Toy Horses and you've got this. The new single, 'Interrupt' ends the album on a high note. A very high note actually. It sounds like a pop-ballad, its lyrics, aside the “uh-ohs”, are heartbreaking. The vocals are angelic and it's easy to see why this was chosen as a single. The catchy chorus will grab you from the start at leave a lasting impression. A song you won't forget.
This debut album is testament enough that good old-fashioned word of mouth still works, albeit with a little helping hand from our friend the Internet. Their story of success is a brilliant one, so don't get left behind and give this album a listen.
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