Broken Boat
Album: Small Defeats
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 11
Website: www.brokenboat.co.uk

If you're not pre-disposed to the effects that music can have on your ability to sit still then avoid 'Small Defeats' at all costs cos this a real toe tapper we've got here!

The first thing that's noteworthy about Broken Boat is the fact that there's only 3 of them as the album sounds as though it's been recorded by a small orchestra. How they'll replicate it live I can only imagine but I'd love to see it! The vocal style and multi instrumentalism of the band recalls Decemberists, Stornoway and perhaps even Slow Club at times but long term I expect Broken Boat will be citing these acts as peers rather than influences because 'Small Defeats' more than stands up against them.

The title track is a fantastic organ lead dancing tune that sets out the stall for the album perfectly-it's literally up and go from the off with no warning. 'Morning Rain' shows off the bands diverse ability as it turns a mournful refrain into a tremendous polka style beat but it's best for (nearly) last here with stand-out track Basement Days having serious Summer hit potential to my ears.

Playing live at clubs and festivals throughout the summer I'd mark Broken Boat down on your 'must see' list if you can!

Rob Fearnley