Review: Skaters - Manhattan

image: press.wbr.com/skaters

After much deliberation, I have finally reached the conclusion that New York newcomers, Skaters', debut album is a thoroughly enjoyable listen. It might not be the most spectacular first pursuit the world has ever seen, but it does showcase that signature Skaters rough-cut-readiness we heard on  tracks like Schemers, Miss Teen Massachusetts and Deadbolt. 

Skaters' experimental side is instantly adhered to on the opener of the LP, One of Us, with its electronic intro, soon to be transformed into that scuzzy guitar sound that seems to dominate the band's overall vibe. Another stand out track has to be Bandbreaker, with yet another instrumental that oscillates from what we are used to with Skaters (in a good way). With very laid back guitars and drums and an understated yet groovy bass line, this track oozes New York coolness, which is what I loved about Skaters from the moment I heard Deadbolt.

To Be Young In NYC is another lovely track that encapsulates all that is brilliant about Skaters; definitely the kind of song that's made to be played while driving through the city that never sleeps in the dead of night (if only). The heaviest moment on the album comes in the form of guitar ridden Nice Hat. This is probably my least favourite track on the album is it takes away from the band's ability to make a killer melody without having to go OTT on guitars.

Aside from the new tracks we have been introduced to on Manhattan,  there are quite a few old gems that make a well deserved return on the LP, including I Wanna Dance (But I Don't Know How), Miss Teen Massachusetts, Schemers and of course Deadbolt. All of which prove to be the band's most credible tracks, it's no wonder they released them prior to the LP release.

Although I should detest the album for making me long to live in New York even more than I already did, I truly am a fan of Skaters' debut. I am impressed with the quality of tracks like One of Us and Bandbreaker seeing as I thought it pretty impossible for them to live up to tracks like their wonderful Deadbolt. A great band and a great starting point for what looks like a blossoming career for Manhattan's very own.

***

7/10