FatCat Records is based in England, but over the years it has shown a keen eye for talent north of Hadrian's Wall. It's catalog shows releases for The Twilight Sad, We Were Promised Jetpacks, Frightened Rabbit, and PAWS. And now they've scored the right to release the self-titled debut album from Glasgow duo
Honeyblood. What Shona McVicar and Stina Tweeddale offer on the album doesn't break new ground. Female-voiced gauzy, sometimes grungy guitar pop also is available from September Girls, La Sera, Frankie Rose, Dum Dum Girls, Best Coast and others. But I think there are several attributes that suggest that
Honeyblood deserves a harder look and a chance to be in your music collection. One is that Tweeddale's lead vocals, and the harmony provided by McVicar's contributions, are compelling. Another is that the songwriting is very good, with plenty of punch and plenty of hooks on top of the punch. And then there is that bit of edge to the lyrics and the delivery, that touch of Glasgow hard guy that you could get with, for example, The Shop Assistants, but not from Best Coast. For my taste, a bit of riot girrrl in my current music is a welcome touch.
Those familiar with the band's earlier work will find the sound a bit different. The energy and attitude remain, but the increased production budget has brought a cleaner sound. I have no complaint about that development. I serves to better showcase the vocals, Stina's guitar, Shona's drums, and the economical arrangements. Moreover, the clean production doesn't blunt the attitude. Based on the evidence of these songs, the women of
Honeyblood are rambunctious and ready to give at least as good as they get. There is a lot of velvet in their voices, but a velvet wrapped hammer is still a hammer.
Honeyblood is out now via FatCat Records. The band is playing several shows in the eastern United States in late July, so US fans should check the band's website at the link below.
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