King Mob
Album: Force 9
Label: SPV/Steamhammer
Tracks: 11
Website: http://www.kingmob-beatgroup.com

Unreconstructed rock 'n' roll from the nut-tight outfit fronted by ex-Sharks man Stephen W Parsons and the proto-punk legend Chris Spedding. They recruited Glen Matlock on bass, former Pretenders drummer Martin Chambers and guitarist called Sixteen for this black leather-clad debut that rocks like a nicotine stain on baby's cot.

Unflinching, uncompromising pub rock made by a bunch of chaps who are old enough to know no better and even though Matlock has since had to duck out due to other commitments there's no way this isn't going to take to the live stage like Coke takes to JD on the rocks.

But don't think its all four-on-the-floor power chordery, these boys know their soul and Who's Chasing Who is graced by some lean guitar licks, club soul drums and neatly judged harmonies applied to SWP's Jimbo-invoking lead vocal. Va Vah Voom cuts a Yardbirds-esque rug on the beer-sodden dancefloor, while American Slaves adds an even more direct blues twist and Selene Selene greases its quiff with some keen rockabilly style.

* King Mob are on tour and play Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne on March 17.

Nick Churchill
www.thegranvillechambers.co.uk