Horsell Common
The Rescue
Boomtown

Some people may say that Horsell Common is well overdue for their debut full length, and after three quite incredible EPs this is probably a fair judgement to make. However after listening to 'The Rescue' it's also fair to say the wait has been worth it - this is nothing short of spectacular.

Throughout the album's entirety every element is pushed to the absolute maximum - and brilliantly. Whether it's Leigh Pengelly's drums, Luke Cripps' bass, or the guitar work and vocal harmonies of Mark Stewart, the final product works better than romance on Valentine's Day. And with producer Stephen Haigler (The Pixies, Brand New) including his lifetime of knowledge on this record, there's no reason why 'The Rescue' cannot be a new benchmark in Australian rock.

The lead single Good From Afar showcases all the fantastic ingredients which Horsell Common are renowned and loved for, and the album just seems to flow perfectly afterwards. It becomes evident that the post-punk outfit has delved into some newer territory, and ultimately it is a progression from their earlier work. But in an LP there is more room for experimentation, and the adventurous aspect is daring yet beautiful.

Automation displays part of this experimentation quite incredibly, with a somewhat Deftones sound at times due to its eerie moments and Mark Stewart's whispered singing vocals. However, the song quickly reverts back into hard-hitting punk rock, the formula we have grown to adore. Help Is On It's Way, It's Ok and Gone For The Summer are all typically Horsell Common songs: they demonstrate the sound that was discovered on their EPs but with much more of "a punch" and more clearly defined song structures. Sing The News is more like a country ballad and, although peculiar, really gives justice to the maturation these guys have undergone in the last five years.

Amazing guest vocals feature from Stephen Christian (Anberlin)on I'm Dead, andLisa Gammaldi (Capeside) on Annie, If You're Listening. Overall the album is everything one would expect and more. There is no disappointment here - just an adventure waiting to be embarked on.

Will Oakeshott