Streets of Laredo
Album: Volume I/II
Label: Dines alone
Tracks: 10
Website: http://www.streets-of-larado.com

Originating from New Zealand, three siblings, Daniel, Dave, and Sarahjane Gibson decided after only ever playing one live show, to up and leave for Brooklyn, New York - for the exhilaration of pursuing their music dream. However, due to the expiry of their visas, it was a trip back to their roots in Auckland, New Zealand, where Volume I & II was born.

Although it was Brooklyn where they evolved into a seven-piece jam-busting ensemble, adding Cameron Deyell, Thomas Darlow (guitar), Sean McMahon (bass) and Andrew McGovern (keyboards) to the mix.

Sometimes a little bit of west coast Americana catchiness is all you need to get you up in the morning. This C.D arrived just in time to give it a first listen as I dutifully responded to my 5.00am alarm call. It's race day - rowing on the river. That means a long and cold day ahead, it's hardly a time for wallowing romantic songs or tinny chart pop - Streets Of Laredo, volume I & II is designed for just those kind of mornings.

Think a more stripped back Vampire Weekend and The Lumineers with 60's and 70's psychedelic traces - reminiscent of The Beach Boys and Paul Simon. This is an album of stomping percussion; where the balance of acoustic and electric guitars allows for a collection of upbeat, feel good tracks. Volume I & II is full of voyage, with nostalgic recollections of home, entwined with notes of what it means to pursue their dream. Kicking off with the alluring, Everything to Everyone, which is an opening testament to this.

The blend of female solos and big group harmonies adds a promising depth to the album. Showing their versatility, from SarahJane's sincere and somehow familiar vocals on Homeless, to the catchy debut single, Girlfriend, which is sure to be a crowd favourite. Each track stands on its own, as a collection they show off the successfully tight composition and togetherness of the band.

Perhaps it's the strong risk-taking beginnings of the band, which has produced a sense of adventure and curiosity, allowing the album to become so charismatic. It would be the perfect soundtrack to the latest Indie flick. Think - Juno, Perks Of Being A Wallflower, Flipped or Nick & Norah's infinite playlist.

Streets of Laredo kick off their U.K tour in London on March 03, you can buy tickets here: http://www.streets-of-laredo.com/live/

Leah Parker-Turnock