Album Review: Only Strangers – Self Titled

Stoke, UK’s Only Strangers are a band with a sound that channels the gruff punk charms of the likes of Hot Water Music, Lawrence Arms, Hummer and Iron Chic, now with their self titled debut album due to be released next month they are set to release a full length that follows up on the promise of their previous EP’s and split releases. The albums boasts ten tracks of fast paced punk rock with frantic sawing guitar tones that makes them a perfect fit for Horn & Hoof Records current roster. 

Last Time bursts into life and gives you a good idea of what’s to come, a rapid fire punk track that’s overlaid with a raw vocal delivery, from this point in there’s a break neck run through of punk rock that’s delivered with a raw power that manages to simultaneously maintain a melodic touch. Despite all ten tracks having the same ingredients Only Strangers debut album manages to avoid falling into the trap of being a one trick pony, the album embraces different elements from the punk scene, from the first wave of the UK punk acts, through to the SoCal melodic hardcore and the UK’s current DIY scene, to avoid their debut album ever becoming repetitious.

Only Strangers have delivered a solid debut album that’s built upon the last seven years of their existence, for me the short but sweet Fare Thee Well is the standout track from Only Strangers self titled debut, but it must be said that there isn’t a weak link anywhere on the album. If you’re tastes lie to towards the ragged edge of melodic punk then Only Strangers are a band that should be on your radar, and this release is a more than welcome addition to Horn And Hoof Records impressive roster.

Only Strangers self titled debut is set for release on the 2nd February and is available for pre-order via Bandcamp here