I did not have a clue that White Lies had been so successful. It’s good to have your finger on the pulse when writing music reviews but since 2007 they have released six albums, all top twenty hits and this, their debut, went straight in at number one. With my usual extensive knowledge, I have never heard a note of their music.
On first listen I recognise Joy Division, The Cure, The Killers, Interpol, and the previously reviewed Slow Readers Club. With songs called Death, To Lose My Life and Nothing To Give I was not expecting a cheerful joyful listen. I would also have to say it’s just a little bit to clean for me but then I like Mark E Smith shouting into a megaphone so maybe I will be in the minority here.
Opener Death builds and Harry McVeigh’s lead vocals dominate, I like the band letting themselves go at three minutes in, it’s a good opener and makes you want to hear what else they have to offer. The title track is one of those songs you think you have heard before, I can only assume at their gigs this is one of those songs where fans grin and punch the air, released back in 2009 but I assume still a highlight.
Unfinished Business is the closest song for me to The Killers, good riff and the music in the background of From the Stars is engaging and Fairwell to the Fairground stays with you.
I’ll end on A Place to Hide, my personal favourite, reminds me of the Teardrops and the Bunnymen but although I am comparing this band to everyone, they have something of their own, it’s not breaking new ground but executed very well.
I don’t think White Lies will come a favourite I’d be telling people about (as if they listen) but would certainly not dismiss them if mentioned.
A band who arrived perfectly formed and knew what they were doing.
6.5/10
GIVE IT A STREAM: A Place To Hide
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