I Like Trains Review The Singles

Leeds band in the hot seat...

I Like Trains are an institution.

Virtually living proof that DIY is not just a choice but a necessity, the band have been able to build an independent, deeply idiosyncratic career over the best part of a decade.

Deciding to look back, I Like Trains have agreed to perform (and, indeed, re-issue) debut EP 'Progress/Reform' in its entirety as part of a special home town show. Taking place at pivotal Leeds venue the Brudenell on December 12th, I Like Trains will roll back the years for what will no doubt be a very special evening. 

Ahead of this, Clash asked vocalist David Martin to peruse this week's singles – and it seems that he wasn't overly impressed…

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Lawson – Juliet

If the Police were a manufactured boy band from 2013 with a rudimentary heavy-handed drummer it might sound something like this. It seems that Kelly Brooke is in the video. It is reassuring to know she is still getting work.

Pearl Jam – Sirens

Pretty standard big MOR alternative rock ballad. Just when you think things can’t get any more earnest andanguished the big delayed guitar solo kicks in and someone crashes a piano. It seems Pearl Jam may be taking their influence from a certain I Like Trains these days, borrowing song titles from two songs on our 'He Who Saw the Deep' album; ‘Sirens’ and ‘A Father’s Son’. I look forward to their take on Dr RichardBeeching’s reshaping of the British Railway network.

Armin van Buuren – Beautiful Life

This euphoric trance nonsense leaves me cold. Has anyone else noticed that ‘the drop’ has ruined popular music? I’m fairly sure Armin Van won’t lose any sleep over my opinion of 'Beautiful Life'. I reckon he and I are looking in the opposite direction when we seek inspiration.

Iggy Azalea – Change Your Life

Marginally better than the rest of this weeks’ singles, by virtue of a hefty buzzing bass line in the verses and a cool tiger cub in the video. I should probably point out that I don’t condone of keeping tigers as a pet Iggy. Otherwise we’re cool.

Angel Haze – Echelon (It's My Way)

Reminded me of the video to 'Baby’s On Fire' by DieAntwoord so I watched that instead. Sorry Angel.

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'Progress/Reform' is set to be re-issued through Fierce Panda on November 4th.

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