Call Upon The Author

This is not what I had in mind when I saw the album cover, what a great surprise- the opening track “Pictures” has so much energy and an incredible dated sound like that of The Beatles combined with The Kinks and almost a bit of a punky Ramones feel mixed in, overwhelming none the less. Typically British and successfully so, my first impressions were nothing but positive. “Keep your eyes on me” proves that The Beatles must have been a huge influence for these guys. I love the fast pace and the almost honest sounding vocals along with “After You’ve Gone” it really does persuade the listener that they’ve travelled back- although has a slight hint of Oasis, which I must admit, I would usually say was the furthest thing from successful in my eyes, however The Len Price Three have made it work for them.
Then onto the steady beat of “If you live round here” which swings more into 2010, however my more negative feel towards Oasis does rear its ugly head here (sorry I can’t help it), you know the Oasis video with the guy in the suit and the coffins? Well it is oh too familiar to that and I’m not sure I enjoy this so much- but hey! Every album has its downfalls (in the least harsh way possible). On a lighter note “Jack in the Breeze” is lovely, a sweet and simple slower number with beautiful vocals and harmonies in each verse, as well as soft sounding strings throughout as it begins to pick up in the chorus- easy listening and peaceful too.
To end on a tough, strong and memorable point The Len Price Three have “Under the Thumb” which has the incredible input of a harmonica, along with continuously aggressive yet fun lyrics- which include the truthful “every time we speak you piss me off” a feeling I think we all know far too well. This is shortly followed by the final track “The Great Omani” which although slightly calmer is a little more idealistic but just as British! Giving “Pictures” a lively but soft ending, I do however apologise for the brief dismissal of Oasis, they’re just one of those pet hates- “Pictures” is a fine album and will hold a well deserved place in the summer of 2010 for me.