The Grim Northern Social
Connected [single]
The Grim Northern Social have an impressive live reputation, including T in the Park slots and gigs with big names such as Elvis Costello and Simple Minds. They now return with the follow up to their 2003 self- titled album, the brand new single ‘Connected.’
Their brand of catchy, punchy pop is inoffensive and fun. Undoubtedly, this is an entertaining song, and perhaps an exciting live show, with a great deal of swagger and stomp. However, does this result in substance being put on the back burner? Dubbed as Glasgow’s ‘next big thing’ they are yet to make this desired impact. The first album bodes well for the band, but they have not quite realised their potential with the new single.
‘Connected’ begins with some feedback, and a few power chords to get you in the mood. Full to the brim with power, the song, however, lacks meaning. In the current Indie scene, the need for bands to do something different is ever increasing. This is where the Grim Northern Social fall down.
The first thing that comes to mind when you hear the B- Side ‘Strange Advice For Babies’ is, unfortunately, The Fratellis. Or perhaps the Stereophonics. Or maybe more recent Primal Scream efforts. Basically, this seems to be a case of a great deal of bluster and fun, but little else.
The Grim Northern Social present a fun and catchy new single, but it is ultimately forgettable. Perhaps the best way to approach it is to take it at face value; this is not a song that will change your life, but you may enjoy dancing to it one night.
> Karen Schlegel
The Grim Northern Social have an impressive live reputation, including T in the Park slots and gigs with big names such as Elvis Costello and Simple Minds. They now return with the follow up to their 2003 self- titled album, the brand new single ‘Connected.’
Their brand of catchy, punchy pop is inoffensive and fun. Undoubtedly, this is an entertaining song, and perhaps an exciting live show, with a great deal of swagger and stomp. However, does this result in substance being put on the back burner? Dubbed as Glasgow’s ‘next big thing’ they are yet to make this desired impact. The first album bodes well for the band, but they have not quite realised their potential with the new single.
‘Connected’ begins with some feedback, and a few power chords to get you in the mood. Full to the brim with power, the song, however, lacks meaning. In the current Indie scene, the need for bands to do something different is ever increasing. This is where the Grim Northern Social fall down.
The first thing that comes to mind when you hear the B- Side ‘Strange Advice For Babies’ is, unfortunately, The Fratellis. Or perhaps the Stereophonics. Or maybe more recent Primal Scream efforts. Basically, this seems to be a case of a great deal of bluster and fun, but little else.
The Grim Northern Social present a fun and catchy new single, but it is ultimately forgettable. Perhaps the best way to approach it is to take it at face value; this is not a song that will change your life, but you may enjoy dancing to it one night.
> Karen Schlegel
