The Lathums are back! The release of their third album, Matter Does Not Define, sees the Wigan based band hone their impeccable talent into a 13 track musical extravaganza. As usual, they did not disappoint and this may well be their best album to date. Another top tier release in their arsenal, things seem to be going very well for The Lathums.
The album kicks things off with a jaunty number titled, ‘Leave No Stone Unturned’. It wastes no time getting started, launching into a classic swing vibe that manages to also sound modern with its interesting rhythmic patterns. Much like most of The Fratelli’s discography.
Everything about this track is catchy but the almost spoken word bridge which is full of fun rhymes is a particular stand out. It also makes the chorus that follows it sound more impactful, especially with the layered background lyrics chanting ‘if you want it, you can get it’. Plus the little laugh just before the end is another lighthearted element that gives it a personable edge. A great way to introduce the album, just the start of everything.
The upbeat tones are present through most of the album, with track two being no exception to that. ‘Reflections Of Lessons Left’ has good momentum and energy, the sharp, choppy guitar chords punctuating the tune and juxtaposing the flowing vocals of the chorus. Although this song feels a bit more laid back compared to track one, you will still find yourself tapping your feet, and Alex’s vocals are strong on this one. The smoothness of the guitar solo in the middle is the cherry on top of the cake too.
‘Stellar Cast’ is the next song on the album. A dancey track with a bridge section that is reminiscent of a Madness composition, reflecting one of their many influences on Matter Does Not Define. Flowing nicely into track four, ‘Heartbreaker’ and then track 5, ‘Dynamite’, it continues the liveliness and high energy that is to be expected from this album at this point.
Tonally, everything fits and it has The Lathums sound and charm laced throughout. These middle tracks in particular are sure to get a crowd singing along to them. The chord changes in ‘Heartbreaker’ sound great and the vocals that fall in time with the guitar really emphasises each line. It’s a fun melodic tune much like ‘Dynamite’ which has a punchy beat and crunchy guitars to keep listeners engaged.
Track six really reflects that halfway point of the album by being a slower number. ‘Unrequited Love’ is a more acoustic sound, despite not actually being acoustic. It comes at just the right time and allows you to catch your breath following track after track of fun and upbeat energy. This little reprieve is short lived as it is then back into the signature lively nature, with an immediate start to ‘No Direction’, no messing about, picking up the pace again.
‘Until Our Bitter End’ explores another jaunty avenue, this time with a country-esque rhythm. Ensuring that every song keeps a similar vibe but making sure nothing sounds the same, you can differentiate each track by its uniqueness. ‘Knocking At Your Door’ feels more relaxed as a result of following track eight, particularly at the beginning. However it still has the signature Lathums grooviness as the song picks up pace as it progresses.
‘The Jester’, ‘Surrounded by Beauty’ and ‘Long Shadows’ give the impression that the band are trying to slowly wind the album down, having given listeners continual high energy leading up to this. Though they don’t lose their liveliness altogether, ‘The Jester’ and ‘Surrounded By Beauty’ are less dancey than others and instead are just nice, easy listening tracks. A gradual decrease in pace means that it feels like a journey and portrays how every song is where it is for a reason. ‘Long Shadows’ in particular feels like the ideal place to end. It is almost five minutes of absolute perfection, which builds up to a dramatic sounding climax. A great way to complete the experience.
Instead the album finishes with ‘Love Of My Life’. This is another rare glimpse into the emotional side of The Lathums. There are very few instances of quieter tracks on Matter Does Not Define, but where they are placed within the album works flawlessly. Bringing everything to a close, the softer feel of this one wraps it all up in a subdued way.
With a busy concert schedule for the year, be sure to catch them on one of their tour dates that are coming up. Based on this album, you will be in for a treat!
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