Future Of The Left - Polymers Are Forever (EP Review)
Thursday, 10 November 2011
Written by Ben Bland
Sadly most of the country does not seem to have noticed that Future of the Left are one of the best bands on the planet, never mind just in Britain. After forming out of the ashes of Mclusky and Jarcrew, both of whom were also very awesome, in 2005 the Andrew ‘Falco’ Falkous led crew have already released two excellent albums. 'Polymers are Forever' suggests that the best may be yet to come however.
A welcome burst back into the crazy world of these Cardiff-based noise rockers, this six-track EP is an insanely enjoyable reminder of what the now quartet do best. Within the first few minutes there have already been blazing guitar riffs, surprisingly catchy lyrics and some squeaky synth action…plus a line about “chocolate water pistols”. It is so hard to dislike this band, always penetrating the mood with their own distinct air of resolutely intelligent sarcasm, Falkous is the sort of songwriter who one imagines could turn their hand to writing anthems but instead chooses to write scuzzy pieces that, while sonically indebted to the likes of The Jesus Lizard and Sonic Youth, are so indisputably their own beasts that his faith in aural weirdness is triumphantly rewarded.
With song titles such as 'My Wife is Unhappy' and 'Dry Hate', do not expect rowdy sing-alongs, but still expect a brilliant twenty minutes that you will want to repeat over and over again. Considering the mini-turmoil of Kelson Mathias having departed last year to be replaced by first Kong man Steven Hodson and then ex-Million Dead bassist Julia Ruzicka, this is the continuation of a remarkably consistent but ever more well-crafted Future of the Left sound. The addition of additional guitarist Jimmy Watkins has also given the riffs a punchier edge. For those who have explored this band before, this will be as brilliant as expected then…for those who have yet to explore then there is still no excuse not to admit to the brilliance on offer.
'Polymers are Forever' is released via Xtra Mile on 14th November 2011. Future of the Left play three UK shows in Cardiff, Leeds and London later this month.
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