It’s the return of Brisbane’s favorite power pop band, Grand Atlantic. And like the debut it goes for those large dramatic hooks and sonic assault which compares well to Oasis. However, the band has stylistically been more streamlined. The large stadium sound on “The Coast is Clear” has a massive bass line that sets the album’s tone, and touches on both Progressive and Brit-pop. The strutting guitar riffs and distorted 80’s styled synths on “Tripwires” make it a real gem, that flirts with just enough cocky brilliance. “She’s a Dreamer” is the radio friendly standard that seems to be getting a lot of attention in native Australia. Mid-tempo tracks like “Freeway” and “Hit N Run” are chiming and hypnotic breaks from the real meat here. That would be the Sgt. Pepper-like percussion and sweet choral breaks on “How We Survive.” And the band hits the money shot again with the fast paced “Just Another Ghost Town” and “Holding Pattern.” These tracks also have a bit of Madchester baked inside them, so fans of The Stone Roses and The Charlatans will love this as well. It ends perfectly with the Lennonesque “Don’t Say Goodnight” and just enough silence for me to hit the repeat button. With the break-up of the brothers Gallagher – I now pass the torch over to Phil Usher and Mat Von Diehm. Viva Grand Atlantic!
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