March 28, 2024

Review: LightGuides – Samba Samba Samba

The heavily awaited debut album from Glasgow band LightGuides is released today after an energetic launch night last weekend at the King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut. Signed to Alcopop! Records, LightGuides have had some sought after support slots on tour with the likes of Frightened Rabbit, The Xcerts and Twin Atlantic. Baring this in mind, it’s easy to see where the band’s influences lie.

“Warhorse” is a fitting opening track which eases you in to the heavier and bigger “This Arts Factory”. LightGuides dip their musical pen in some emo ink for “Crookshanks”, a song with lots shouting and a elegant breakdown. “Bachelor Death Party” is by far the best track on this record and sees the band venture more toward to the old pop-punk side of their music. The backing vocals are very Biffy Clyro and the intro has you thinking you’re listening to the song through an old fashioned radio. The switching time signatures and composite riffs will appeal to any fellow musicians or technical buffs.

On paper you’d think the lack of a bass player would make this genre of indie-pop-punk sound empty and lacking but LightGuides have created seven songs of catchy and intricate riffs, flawless harmonies and rushed but accurate vocals. Closing track “W.H.Y.L” combines all of these ingredients along with a slow starting introduction. This gives vocalist Matt Cowan the opportunity to show off before he makes way for the heavier guitars. More strange timing and quick changes make the track unique and round off the album fabulously. It’s this attention to detail and uniqueness that set LightGuides out from the rest and stops them from being merely compared to their Scottish forefathers. Although if you do like a bit of the Biff and The Xcerts, you’re sure to enjoy this album.

“Samba Samba Samba” is available to download at all the usual digital stores and available to stream on Spotify.

By Heather Fraser

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