Album Review: Thomas Tantrum – Mad By Moonlight
3 min read
Southampton indie pop collective Thomas Tantrum first came to light back in 2008 with the release of their self titled debut. The record was a reasonably successful venture for the band which allowed the act to rope in a sturdy fan-base that included fellow English musician Lily Allen and Glasvegas.
Fast forward to 2011 and we see the release of the bands new record, Mad By Moonlight. Already supported by the records lead single Sleep, the band have taken a broader approach to the new album sounding tighter with a revved up commercial feel.
The band consists of Megan Thomas (lead vocals, guitar), Jim Shivers (bass, vocals), David Miatt (guitars, vocals) and Dave Wade Brown (drums, vocals) and together they have put together a meaty little slab of indie fit for the balmy summer season ahead.
Each of the dozen tracks featured on the record display various styles and although it could be considered a predominantly indie record the band have also tapped into the various influences which include The Cure, Sugarcubes and th B-52’s, to bring us the collection of new numbers featured here.
Opening track Tick Tock (Satie) with its spangly guitars and subtle clock ticking introduces us to the new record with gusto. Combining a mid tempo verse and swaying chorus structure the track is a perfect opening number that instantly sets high expectations for the remainder of the record.
The albums lead single Sleep opens with a Lulu-esque belting which show face throughout the number and contains three minutes of indie bliss as Megan loops vocally around her bands well crafted musical supporting.
Hot Hot Summer is a perfect summer hit that gives the band their most mainstream felt addition. Front lady Megan’s cool wailing and vocal drops compliment the records potent structure while the chorus maintains a catchy and melodic hook giving the track radio friendly appeal.
The closing Supermodel takes the band away from their uptempo signature sound and a calm, delicate semi acoustic track is offered. With a lightly strum guitar backing and a subtle drum beat Supermodel ushers us to the end of the record with beautifully written and sentimental balladry.
Mad By Moonlight showcases a band who have mastered their sound and become a very tight collective and one that has come a very long way in the short three year space since their debut release.
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