The Holidays
When The Ship Goes Down
Liberation


A good friend isn't going to break your heart, but at the same time they aren't going to set your world on fire. Think of Sydney's The Holidays as your good friends. Their catchy mid-tempo rock tunes are never exactly going to blow your mind, but there's no way you can really hate their earnest effort and loveable resolve.

'When The Ship Goes Down' comes hot on the heels of their debut self-titled EP, and although it doesn't quite carry over all the potential The Holidays unveiled earlier in the year, it provides a mighty fine listen and a slyly guilty pleasure.

Tracks from the predecessor like Holiday, Planes and The Lovers were oh so catchy, but more than that they nudged the boundaries of conventional radio-friendly pop/ rock. No doubt the four lads have a little something to make them stand out from every other sorry Australian Strokes knock-offs.

This form is immediately carried over to their latest release with the blistering When The Ship Goes Down. Simon Jones takes the reins, straining his usually suave vocal chords above thunderous drums in their most rocking tune to date.

At times however, the energy just feels a little lacklustre on 'When The Ship Goes Down'. Be it a comedown from the excitement of the first release or maybe just a rushed effort, things don't feel absolutely right. Tracks All The Girls and Take Your Own Advice are enjoyable enough but fade without ever reaching their peak. But hey, it's only their second EP! Accessible, fun and exciting, 'When The Ship Goes Down' strengthens The Holidays deserved and growing acclaim.

Nick Peters