Infadels - 'Universe In Reverse' (Wall Of Sound) Released 26/06/08

Three years ago Infadels were one of the hottest bands on the circuit, with the release of their critically acclaimed debut, 'We Are Not the Infadels', awards being won left, right and centre and support from the likes of the late John Peel. Forming in 2003, they released there own singles on vinyl and had no plans of touring. All things changed when they realised that their music was being well received by the listeners and the corporates. Awards were won pre album release and eventually the band signed to Wall of Sound. The pressure was on to release a successful follow-up album, however with 'Universe in Reverse' Infadels have achieved just that.

Written and put together in 14 days at there home studio in London, the band's sophomore album was produced by Martin Glover, better known as the producer of The Verve's 'Urban Hymns'. With a more urgent, rockier sound the album is characterised by crashing guitars and revving hoover-synths, the music was then surrounded in deep, cinematic sounds. Fresh and exhilarating, the band have comparisons to the likes of The White Stripes or Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Opening track 'Circus of The Mad' is energetic from start to finish, with distinct chanting that is very similar to Kasabian. Bnann Watts vocal is rough round the edges, but matches well with he funky bass line and crashing drums, singing "What you want to wait for/i won't ever stand in a line no more/manage to get more/ out the money/ seems to fall through the holes in my clothes...".
 
'Free Things For Poor People' is the latest single that opens with comparison to Arcade Fire until the vocal comes in and the sound changes to be not unlike The Zutons indie pop sound. Its sing a long melodies allows it to glow with positivity and the instrumentation is well structured, making the track come across as energy filled goodness. The title track 'Universe in Reverse' has the band back to there roots of electronica and sonic waves throughout the background. The track also bears resemblance to Franz Ferdinand, with choppy guitars and catch lyrics.." no one on my back/ gonna have my way/gonna have my way...". In contrast the following track 'Don't Look Behind You' is a broody ballad style number, with deeper vocals from Bnann Watt, which shows some depth to the band rather than being all fun, fun, fun.
 
It would be fair to say that the Infadels are nothing new these days, with new indie/electro bands coming out every other day. Their sound is a modern interpretation of 80's dance/rock, such as The Cure, and with endless comparisons to peers Franz Ferdinand, its hard for Infadels to be recognised as a stand alone band. However with 'Universe in Reverse', they will be turning heads during the festival season, showing the new boys how its done.