Dropkick “Patchwork” (Sound Asleep Records, 2008)

Stockholm syndrome makes for a captivating record

On album number eight Dropkick have made a subtle shift. The opening "Nowhere Girl" with banjo and pedal steel signals the move to a more country based sound, though fans can relax because they certainly haven’t left behind their knack for writing glorious pop tunes with killer choruses. The chorus here is sticky as fresh poured asphalt. The harmonies are still there too, at times they’re stretched out, given time to develop, and "Making Time to Talk" makes time for a superb guitar break. They’re beginning to sound more than ever like an amalgamation of Teenage Fanclub ("Breakdown") The Thrills ("Nowhere Girl") and Wilco ("The State that Remains") which for an Americana agglomeration it is on the acceptable to excellent axis.

With Sweden leading the way these days in all manner of pop related genres, it is fitting that this is where Dropkick have found a home. These songs are just the right mixture of slick pop craft, bright harmonies, melancholia and a bit of grit. Whether in an upbeat poppy mode or singing the greys in a more down-tempo mood they can turn an afternoon into a pleasure keg. "Travelling Song" diffuses an atmosphere of gentle conversation. They’d never pretend to be big on experimentation, they’re more tinkerers trying to get the best out of what they have, so this isn’t a radical departure from anything they’ve done before. It does sound good though; as good or better than they’ve ever been. "Where I’m From" is typical - tight, melodic with not a note out of place, quite lovely. Then there’s the driving "Lucky That The Heart" that wheels straight into your brain doing celebratory laps after winning the pop grand prix. There’s not a bad song here, it’s as solid an effort as you’ll have heard all year.

Date review added:  Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Reviewer:  David Cowling
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