WORDS BY DESH KAPUR
FIRST ALBUM IN 10 YEARS
OUT 18TH AUGUST – ORDER ALBUM HERE
Tribes’ latest album, ‘Rabbit Head‘, marks a triumphant return after more than a decade in the making. The band’s journey has been a rollercoaster, with two studio albums, namely 2012’s ‘Baby’ and 2013’s ‘Wish to Scream,’ followed by a departure from Island Records. Over time, a blend of personal tensions and shifting audience dynamics brought the band to a crossroads – the choice between persisting in the struggle or gracefully disbanding. Ultimately, they opted for the latter.
Fast forward ten years, and the stars aligned as all four core members of Tribes – including Lloyd, guitarist Dan White, bassist Jim Cratchley, and drummer Miguel Demelo – came together once again, ignited by a one-off benefit performance for the charitable cause Choose Love. This reunion served as a catalyst, prompting the band to ponder whether there was more music left in their creative reservoir.
‘Rabbit Head’ embodies the essence of Tribes’ distinct bombastic indie rock sound, and it’s evident that they’re crafting the music they’ve always aspired to make. The album scales new heights with its 14 robust rock tracks that consistently adhere to a four-on-the-floor rhythm. The record is a treasure trove of anthemic tunes that resonate deeply, hooking listeners right from the first note.
The album’s foundation is built upon crunching guitars that strike a fine balance between raw energy and refined craftsmanship. There are moments where Tribes’ sound seems to be a fusion of Supergrass’ contagious enthusiasm and Feeders‘ timeless musicality. This distinctive blend is underpinned by driving bass lines that provide an electrifying backbone to each composition.
However, beneath the surface of its sonic exuberance, ‘Rabbit Head’ unveils a confessional quality that makes it incredibly authentic and relatable. The tracks bear an arena-sized stomp, resonating with grandeur and scale. Lloyd’s vocals soar across the tracks, infusing them with emotion and intensity, creating an atmosphere that is both charged and introspective.
Amidst the album’s dynamic energy, there’s a thread of gorgeous melodies that weave through each song, adding a layer of sophistication to the band’s signature sound. ‘Rabbit Head’ isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a journey that encapsulates a decade’s worth of growth, experiences, and self-discovery. On the surface, it’s a record that exudes a sense of fulfillment and artistic maturity, reflecting the band’s evolution during their hiatus.
In conclusion, ‘Rabbit Head’ is an album that was undeniably well worth the wait. Tribes’ return to the music scene has been nothing short of a triumph, breathing new life into their signature indie rock sound. With each track, they deliver a potent mix of passion, creativity, and a touch of nostalgia, creating an album that resonates deeply with both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
8/10
TRACK LISTING
1. Hard Pill
2. It’s All Borrowed
3. Catwalk
4. Dad I’m Not A Tough Guy
5. Earthling
6. 10 Ways To Improve Your New Life!
7. Medicine
8. Grandad’s On The Beer
9. Celebrate
10. -ism
11. Boy
12. Dressing Gown
13. Fade To Credits
14. Message From The Sponsor
AUGUST 2023
IN-STORE UK TOUR
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Sat 12 Aug – Hey Joe, Brentwood
Sun 13 Aug – Beyond Vinyl, Newcastle
Monday 14 Aug – Jacaranda, Liverpool
Thurs 17 Aug – Banquet, Kingston-Upon-Thames
Fri 18 Aug – Vinyl Whistle, Leeds
Sat 19 Aug – Rough Trade, Bristol
Sun 20 Aug – Truck, Oxford
Mon 21 Aug – Rough Trade West, London
Tues 22 Aug – Vinilo, Southampton
Wed 23 Aug – Resident, Brighton
FOLLOW TRIBES
My life is a soundtrack, i track my life through music, photography is my passion, my escape, my expression. Without both i have pieces missing, thankfully i’m blessed and get to combine both.
Born in Manchester, lived in Australia for 22 years where i was heavily involved in the Australian Music Industry, firstly in bands (Singer) and then managing bands (all original), I moved back to the UK, Wales specifically 10 years ago
