One Little Indian (label)
27 November 2015 (released)
20 November 2015
Having spent months hidden away in their studio, The Computers have finally returned with their new EP ‘Want The News? Here’s The Blues’ as a taster before their third album is due in Spring 2016. With elements of rock, soul and even blues, the English quintet are a real unique bunch. New members James Mattock and Tom McMahon have joined to create the eclectic EP that displays the bands transformation from heavy punk to a versatile group.
‘Want The News? Here’s The Blues’ is jam packed with constant singalong ‘ohhs’ and ‘yeahs’ making it a great way to kick of the EP. Lead vocalist Kershaw explains how “I knew it wasn't a love song....it was a life song. We have all felt the grind of day to day life/love & work so for better or worse that's what this song is about. You want the news, here's the blues”. What’s not to love about this? Everyone wants a moan once in a while and what better way to get it out of your system than to singalong to this tune.
New track ‘Crucifixed On You’ has that strong garage rock sound that The Computers were known and loved for. Heavy riffs and a catchy chorus make a song that would be perfect for gigs or just to play on full volume in your room. Kershaw’s vocals are usually strong and well controlled but in parts of this track he loses that regulation. This aside, the songs repetitive nature makes it addictive.
The cover of Devo’s ‘Whip It’ is an absolute brilliant addition to the EP. With a slight electronic sound but still keeping it to Devo’s roots, the track is completely original. Kershaw’s vocals suit the song so well that you can actually mistake him for a modern Mothersbaugh at some points.
Bringing the EP to a finish is their new song ‘It’s Over You’. Many say The Computers have lost their punk side and this is shown through this track. It starts off very flat and tedious but slowly progresses so that Kershaw can show off those impressive stentorian vocals. It’s a shame they decided to finish with this track as it’s not up to the standard of the others, bringing the EP to a disappointing finish.
Lets hope ‘Want The News? Here’s The Blues’ is an insight to how The Computer’s 2016 album is going to sound. With David McEwan producing, I can’t see where it could possibly go wrong. Although ‘It’s Over You’ doesn’t grow or use those extra levels that the rest of the EP maintains, the other three tracks are fantastic creating something that will leave the fans eager for more.
