British music duo Sleaford Mods has a new EP, “T.C.R.,” (Total Control Racing), that is five tracks of some of the grimiest angst listeners have heard in a while.
The Nottingham-based group made their name with their own distinct brand of crisp, post-punk. On their newest record “T.C.R.,” vocalist Jason Williamson and musician Andrew Fearn stay consistent which their fans have come to expect from them.
Williamson and Fearn work well together, each bringing an important aspect that breathes life into the group’s sound. Williamson is arguably one of the most distinct vocalists in the entirety of music. He spits each accent soaked line with trademark British snark, his delivery constantly riding the border between singing and spoken-word. This relentless, rambling delivery has become instantly identifiable as the band’s own brand of unique sound.
Williamson’s bitter, ranting lyrics are paired perfectly with Fearn’s grimy, abrasive instrumentals. The instrumentals that supply the backbone to Sleaford Mods are typically minimalistic in nature. With no need for busy production, frivolity is cast aside. Just because the beats are not ornate does not mean they are boring or unengaging.
Sleaford Mods demonstration of restraint, when it comes to their production and lyrics, is all a part of their allure. Listeners would find it difficult to find a song by the band that is any more than an electronic loop with maybe a repetitive bassline or drum fill. With Sleaford Mods, what listeners see is what they get. Less is more. They are one of the few bands that value substance over style. They are genuine.
While many bands try to capture the real grit in their sound, Sleaford Mods prove on “T.C.R.” that they don’t need to fake it. Instead of using overly loud music with screeching vocals Sleaford Mods find their edge in their authenticity.
“T.C.R.” is not edgy without reason. Speaking once again of the substance of the EP, Williamson barks cold, snide remarks lamenting the struggle of the everyday working-class. The consistent tones keep the record grounded with real world grit. Overwhelming cynicism and righteous disgust is in abundance on “T.C.R.,” but that’s all part of Sleaford Mods charm. If they were making music about beautiful sunny days and how happy and content they were, it just wouldn’t be the same.
In many ways Sleaford Mods feel like a natural evolution of punk rock. While their sound would never be confused for rock, thematically the parallels are incredibly clear. Their barebones, do-it-yourself sound and care free attitude is as punk rock as it gets really.
It may seem harsh, but not unfair to call Sleaford Mods formulaic. They figured out what works, what their fans expect, and they have stuck to it. And while it would be nice to hear them step out of their comfort zone and maybe experiment a little bit for once, there is something to be said for knowing what they are good at.
