SHADRACKS - From Human Like Forms LP

"This three-piece has electrifying chemistry and potent vocals delivered by their charismatic frontman and guitarist Huddie Shadrack. His voice may remind you of the prolific artist Billy Childish, his father, who also produced their latest record. At times, his versatile vocal range also has some Eddie Argos (Art Brut) quirks. The rhythm section is equally skilled with drummer Elisa Abednego and imperial bass player Rhys Webb, better known as a member of The Horrors.

Hailing from Kent, The Shadracks craft razor sharp anthems that take a dry look at human relationships, following in the footsteps of the Birmingham 80s outfit The Au Pairs. Is there anything more recurrent in rock ‘n’ roll music than desiring something or someone you can’t have? This is the cornerstone of the band’s material, epitomized in their song ‘You Can’t Lose’. “It’s about wanting something you can’t get, chasing the unobtainable and finding yourself at the mercy of your pursuits.”

At their most ominous atmospherically, The Shadracks may also sound reminiscent of The Fall circa ‘This Nation’s Saving Grace’ as on the foggy and eerie ‘Delicate Touch’, one of the pinnacles on this record. They are able to conjure up the frosty ambiance of 80s Britain whilst cleverly owning their sound.

In a time when music takes itself too seriously and in an ocean of soundalike groups, what is more life affirming than a band that takes us back to the core values and essence of raw and brazen rock ‘n’ roll?