Cruising by on sing along anthemic vibes, Master Peace's debut delivers a riot of carefree youthful energy, an unapologetic love letter to the highs and lows of responsibility free young adulthood. Powered by gritty baselines, sharp rhythmic chops and catchy guitar riffs, their brood of Indie Rock echo's a spirit the best of Britpop once had to offer. Blur's Park life comes to mind, with many of these lyrics cutting resonate insights into modern British life. So to do melodies and grooves also evoke vague memories from our countries musical history. More notably, a few familiar The Prodigy synth tones crop up on its aptly integrated Dance Rock numbers.
This is all high praise, without a touch of plagiarism, Master Peace writes a new chapter of British Rock, every track hitting with an infectious intent. The song-writing is class, tight catchy songs with purpose. On occasions they play rough around the edges, peaking instruments ruffle the feathers with a shirty attitude. As the singer, Peace handles the grit and sleaze of shouty, loud speaker hooks, pivoting to smooth tuneful singing and all in between. Swaying between obvious influences, Indie Rock, Punk, Dance Rock. Soft flashes of Shoegaze, EDM and UK Hip Hop add to the mix, a fun upbeat party concoction, both serious and cheeky. A good listen front to back.
Ones personal taste will influence the album experiences topography. The warmth of Panic101, Start You Up and Happiness Is Love were peaks. Shangaladang and its reprisal Santiladang were valleys. I could see what they were going for, just not quite my cup of tea. How To Make A Master Peace is a fast and brief record, a half hour of power totally worth checking out if you're fond of British sounding music.
Rating: 8/10