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8 out of 10
There are few bands that can get me in such a childlike tizz as These Arms Are Snakes. 2006’s Easter is still very much a regular listening pleasure of mine; therefore as I’m sure you can imagine I have been looking forward to 'Tail Swallower And Dove'.
It’s not a million miles away from Easter and some of the tracks sound pretty transferable. The record is fundamentally aggressive and TTAS’s live intensity is still all too evident. Tail Swallower And Dove shows a degree of progression, but still leans firmly on a framework and scaffolding that works well for them. But hey, if it ain’t broke, don’t break it. You still get the broodiness and depth you expect from TTAS, in abundance.
Stand out track, for me is ’Ethnic Double’ which drives relentlessly - it’s repetitive and draining but ultimately fulfilling. Much of the record adopts a more current vibe seeing the band experiment with *ahem* dancey overtones. But don’t be fooled, it's no theme tune to Skins - its angular, driving and deeply sinister; more in line with ’Crimes’ era Blood brothers than Hodouken! or foals. It pulses with such fury and ferocity and one really must pay special attention to the incredible drumming skills of Chris Common, who my friend Andy feels ’is carrying the band’. Now, I don’t agree with this sentiment - but they are impressive.
This record is laced with hooks more catchy than cold sores. Lyrically its punchy and provoking, my one gripe being Steve Snere’s vocals, which I have, and have always found a bit raspy and classic rock. Other than that though, it’s a great album full of strong tunes, uncomfortable yet compelling. A Terrible beauty you might say. Either way TTAS have again come up with the goods.
I tip my hat.
Listen: www.myspace.com/thesearmsaresnakes
Tracklist:
1. Woolen Heirs
2. Prince Squid
3. Red Line Season
4. Lucifer
5. Ethric Double
6. Seven Curtains
7. Long And Lonely Step
8. Lead Beater
9. Cavity Carousel
10. Briggs
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