Augustines, formerly known as We Are Augustines, set a flag in the ground a few years back with 'Rise Ye Sunken Ships', a raw journey that also worked as a joyous reminder of how brilliant music can be.
On its self-titled follow up, the band continue where their stunning debut left off, albeit with a few notable differences. Where ‘Rise Ye Sunken Ships’ was about coming to terms with tragedy, Augustines have taken a new path here. This is an album that’s content to wander - it’s about finding yourself along the way.
A quick look around the musical landscape reveals that bands with a certain blue collar twist are a dime a dozen. Nothing To Lose But Your Head conforms to that tradition in some ways - it’s catchy and it soars - but it feels free and unforced. Everything here is genuine.
As Walkabout strips it down to acoustic guitar and piano to signal the album’s midpoint, ‘Augustines’ reaches a tipping point into Americana, a style that appears to suit them pretty well.
Kid You're On Your Own swings for a grand, traditional sound and while it never quite nails it, it’s a fitting stop on the record’s travels. Now You Are Free continues the theme and provides a stand out as the album moves to its conclusion.
On their debut, Augustines were honest and powerful. Instead of continuing to use their platform to deal with personal matters, though, they've now opened up to a universal message, one that hits home in a broader sense.
Thu April 10 2014 - LEEDS Cockpit
Fri April 11 2014 - GLASGOW Arches, Glasgow
Sat April 12 2014 - GATESHEAD The Sage Gateshead
Mon April 14 2014 - LONDON KOKO
Wed April 16 2014 - MANCHESTER Academy 2
Thu April 17 2014 - BRISTOL Bristol Trinity
Sat May 10 2014 - SHEFFIELD Plug
Sun May 11 2014 - NOTTINGHAM Rescue Rooms
Mon May 12 2014 - OXFORD O2 Academy Oxford
Wed May 14 2014 - LIVERPOOL East Village Arts Club
Thu May 15 2014 - EDINBURGH Liquid Room
Fri May 16 2014 - BIRMINGHAM The Temple at The Institute
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