Why is it that so many vocalists in new bands these days want to sound like Pete Doherty? Fair enough, he’s an iconic musical talent, but have the bloody balls to be yourself. It’s really not cool, and totally infuriating. Once you get over the fact that vocalist Al Joshua clearly has some sort of Doherty shrine that he worships The Lost Revue actually sound pretty good.
The Lost Revue are a cockney four piece. Orphans And Vandals is their new mini-album. The title track sees an indifferent verse swell to a euphoric chorus. Guitarist Phil Edwards attempts to single handedly reinvent the guitar solo whilst Joshua recites endearing harmonica melodies.
Pirate’s Life musically, vocally, lyrically, structurally is so blatantly Libertine Doherty Shambles it’s untrue. It’s too long, unoriginal and gets tiring quickly. Street Meat is a welcome change in sound, and lyrically creative but there is one song on this mini-album, and one song alone that tip-ex’s out The Lost Revue’s downfalls. That song is The Revival.
Forlorn, aching guitar melodies host a lonesome harmonica. There’s an engaging quality to Joshua’s voice as he sounds like he’s reciting some sort of prophetic vision, all held together by a bouncy pop rhythm.
All in all then The Lost Revue sound pretty good, and are clearly a huge emerging talent. But they are not quite ready to be thrust into the public eye. Give them a few months to hone their sound, maybe dispose of that Doherty shrine, and they should be ready for business. Until then, keep an eye on them.
The Lost Revue MP3s or CDs
The Lost Revue on Spotify
