We Were Promised Jetpacks

Upon proclaiming my love for these young Scots' scorching debut, an acquaintance mentioned it was "post-rock with Scottish charm." While technically true, the pithy encapsulation does need refinement. There is very little charm on this record, as it's made by hungry, young miserablists. Further, while the classic post-rock quiet/loud dynamics are in full effect, this is, at heart, a rock record. This combination of textured, slow-building guitar rock and uncomfortable, embarrassingly confessional lyrics makes for a gorgeous and unsettling experience. "Short Bursts" will melt your speakers with its ferocious guitar breakdown, while "This Is My House, This Is My Home" is tension/release at its finest. "Quiet Little Voices" is as intense as it is catchy and "Roll Up Your Sleeves" is stunningly crafted. Sure, they sound like Frightened Rabbit covering the Twilight Sad (and vice versa), but this band stand squarely on their own with this masterful catharsis wrapped in Scottish mist and layered guitars. You will get goosebumps.