The Rank Deluxe - Tightrope
[FatCat]

There was a low-key, amateurish charm on their first three singles by The Rank Deluxe (later compiled as a self-titled mini album), that seems to be lost on this new two-tracker, Tightrope and Steal My Soul.

Since those 2006 records, things haven't really progressed in terms of 'moving things forward', these South-East London boys are still pushing an adrenalised punk angle that hasn't evolved in what, 30 plus years? Guitars, drums, bass and shouting Mockney vocals, the band do their best at authentic retro Brit-punk which would probably sell a lot of records if The Libertines and Babyshambles hadn't already pipped them to it.

Production is a lot tighter and cleaned-up than their past efforts and does give these songs a louder, thicker full-on edge yes, but the band are dangerously close to sounding almost too clinical in their approach. It's catch 22 really - if these four Londoners hope to expand their fanbase and rival the heights of their label mates like The Twilight Sad, then they have to shape-shift into a more commercial machine.

It is possible their live shows may bring some dumb joy, amidst the frantic vocals and feedback-heavy spastic guitars, but when it comes to studio recordings, they lack any substance to shout about. Without the rawness or shambolic tones, there isn't much left to appreciate from the band and with such a similar sound to that of the hotly-tipped The Metros (who, incidentally, have a major label behind them) it looks like The Rank Deluxe are destined to be eclipsed before the release of forthcoming album You Decide.

Track Listing:

1. Tightrope
2. Steal My Soul