By Fred Spanner
The Royston Club: Songs For The Spine ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Royston Club’s second album, Songs For The Spine, is out now, and it’s a belter. Produced by Richard Turvey (the guy who’s helped Blossoms and The Courteeners polish their riffs), it’s a powerhouse of bangers.
“Shivers” kicks things off nicely. Moody, broody, and goes from zero to one hundred in effortless fashion. “The Patch Where Nothing Grows” is a massive tune with everything, including the kitchen sink thrown in. “Crowbar” is your indie floor-filler, and “Spinning” draws you in slowly, then hits you like a Jägerbomb.
Songs For The Spine is a powerful statement. It’s ambitious at times, emotionally resonant, and refreshingly raw. The Royston Club have managed to retain their indie roots while pushing the boundaries of their sound. With its compelling songwriting, live-infused energy, and dramatic scale, this album cements their rise as one of the UK’s most exciting new voices. Yes, certain moments might feel a bit grandiose, but that scale is part of the joyride.
They’ve matured a bit. There’s still plenty of guitar-driven chaos, but now with added “ooh, didn’t expect that” moments.
Nice work, lads! One of the best albums we’ve heard all year.