The Open, 'The Silent Hours' (Loog) Released 05/07/04

The Open were one of the bands that were tipped to break through in 2004, having built a reputation of a strong live band with epic songs.  Based in Liverpool, the five members met at Art College and found they shared a liking for The Verve, which becomes evident on listening to their debut album ‘The Silent Hours’.

Lyrically dark and musically epic, The Open have what could be described as a ‘live’ sound.  Nothing particularly fancy, but catchy melodies grab your attention and stick in the mind; ‘Close My Eyes’ is a great example of this, along with ‘Bring Me Down’. ‘Just Want To Live’ sees vocalist Steven Bayley do a Noel Gallagher on an anthem much better than Oasis’ recent output. The track also allows keyboardist Alan Dutton to show off, though his contribution is apparent throughout the album.

Not content with anthems - the band also deliver epic ballads, with the most impressive being the haunting ‘Daybreak’.  Though ‘Lost’ may see Bayley sounding like Feeder’s Grant Nicholas, it is still a stunning song, driven by a lazy keyboard line and thudding bass.  It also features the standout guitar solo of the album.  Finishing on a positive note in the shape of the uplifting ‘Elevation’, The Open leave us upbeat and with a chorus to sing along to.

Though lyrically depressing, 'The Silent Hours' is an album that would brighten up anyone’s record collection.  And although they don’t always get things right (‘Coming Down’ is a mess) this band knows how to play and know how to write – and know that sooner or later songs this good will see them earn the success they deserve.