The Coral - Nightfreak And The Sons Of Becker

The word limited usually refers to one-off pressings of say, a thousand copies. So the very fact The Coral's third album is limited to an absurd 75,000 just proves how huge they've become in such little time. Most bands can only dream of ever selling such a quantity.

A homage to the early releases, 'Nightfreak' was recorded in just 2 weeks straight, this spontaneous approach & recording method captures their raw essence beautifully. Matched only by the debut, it's also the only recorded material to rival their energetic live performances, with the start of the album towering over the dullness that infected 'Magic & Medicine'.

Unfortunately, three tracks in and the group have fallen to pieces, it's instantly clear 'Nightfreak' is the lad's simply pissing around, having a joke at out expense. Anything they record will sell by the truckloads, so the band are simply cashing-in on their new found glory. Included are goofy sketches, off-key vocals and a general, can't be arsed attitude.

What a shame, that one of the most promising acts we have is reduced to such poor material. Most of the tracks have their highlights & moments of sheer quality, but before you know it they've drifted off into some tuneless jam session. It's as if the songs are built upon a basic riff or idea, then improvised during recording.

There's also unnecessary attempts to sound like other bands, which their fan base may not be familiar with. 'Grey Harpoon' craves to be anything of the Super Furry Animals masterpiece 'Guerrilla', whilst 'Lover's Paradise' is dying to be the 'Beta Band Rap'. Considering the backlash the Beta's suffered from that album, Skelly & Co. should have been more cautious.

A release that was full of potential but couldn't quite make it, hopefully this will get the stupidity out of their system. Hit & miss throughout, if you love The Coral you'll probably love this too, for anyone else it's not worth your time. Shoddy artwork as well.