The Rank Deluxe - Poor Man's Cab / End In Mind
[FatCat]

The Rank Deluxe took their name after overhearing a glamour model's description of a strip club they were entering (allegedly above the band's old rehearsal space). Apparently meaning 'the height of scum', it seems an appropriate name for a band whose influences range from ska and dub to grime.

Describing this AA side as 'a sonic picture of council estate youth', it's completely no nonsense and to the point, right down to the recording, which is as though it were live, with banter between the band thrown in for good measure.

Drawing inspiration from The Specials and Gang of Four, 'Poor Man's Cab', tells the tale of getting a night bus home from London. A two and a half minute rampage of guitar and Sarf Lahnden inflected shouting, it does what it says on the tin. Second track, 'End In Mind', is a more contemplative, reflective love song. With splashings of dub and two tone, it's a touching, heartfelt recollection, which still manages to maintain a sense of punk rock decorum.

Despite the raw energy and intense live sound to this record, both tracks fall into the punk by numbers trap; a catchy, shout-along chorus, backed up with a driving bass line. It's instantly forgettable, throw away stuff, best suited to live gigs, where the energy can fully come across. It's not a record that will change your life, but you might just have a good pogo.