One of the major plus points is the twin vocals of Dan Buchanan and Jessica Del Rio.  They ignite ‘Research’ a track which constructs itself on the back of gentle vocals and guitar before the tub thumping percussion of Jessica’s brother James launches it into orbit.  ‘When It Falls’ plays on the juxtaposition of the gentle glockenspiel with the driving lead guitar and shows a vital change of pace to make it less predictable.  This proves to be one of the most epic of tracks building to a mighty climax as Buchanan desperately drags them home with his impassioned vocals.  ‘Smile’ is an instant pop tune loaded with glockenspiel and guitar, but it is ‘Wash Out’ which is the highlight of the album.  The winding guitars, emotive lyrics and building verses make for a spectacular finale and serve as proof of the potential on offer.

 

The biggest problem is that by ‘Amersham Road’ the tracks seem to be merging into one and there’s a nagging feeling at the back of your mind you’ve heard this somewhere before.  Its refreshing UK bands don’t just turn to the next city over for their influences but when it’s as obvious as this and as similar as the aforementioned bands you can’t help but crave for a touch of uniqueness.  With all that said ‘Be Your Alibi’ is an album which lasts just 42 minutes but feels beautifully epic and represents a release with a lot more going for it than the majority of bands around today.