Fang Island – Fang Island

With a band describing their sound as ‘everyone high fiving everyone’, you can only hope that this album leaves yousmiling, and that it does. ‘Fang Island’ is another gem to add to the ever expanding Sargent House records label.

After a firework-accompanied guitar swelling intro in the form of ‘Dreams of Dreams’, the band fly into ‘Careful Crossers’ giving the first real impression of what Fang Island are about. Its a joy because there’s a real sense of enjoyment flowing out of each guitar riff and each cymbal crashed and drum hammered. There is almost a carefree feel to the music, yet it has been created with tonnes of devotion and attention.

There are riffs crammed into every inch and centimetre of each track. ‘Sidewinder’ literally does meander on a four minute journey, coming to a conclusion with a lead guitar riff which cannot fail to put you in a good mood.

‘Daisy’ and ‘Life Coach’ display a more vocal side of the band which works just effectively. There’s nothing overpowering about them, and the instrumental aspect of each song remains the focal point. The former of the two tracks is even due to be featured in the Rock Band game series which is a huge achievement and compliment.

At no point with Fang Island is there a pause or a filler moment. There were obvious standout moments on the first listen, but given more time, tracks such as ‘The Illinois’ and ‘Welcome Wagon’ hit as they weave their melodic magic and become lodged in your head.

‘Fang Island’ is an album to enjoy whatever the situation. It would be criminal to listen to it and not feel more positive in any way. Maybe even impossible. Had a bad day? Listen to Fang Island. Had a good day? Listen to Fang Island.