Lowgold - Just Backward Of Square (2001)

It was with a teary eye that I first heard Lowgold. They sounded so perfect, deriving from the blueprint for innovative guitar fused melody. After that, there was no turning back. Isn't it great that in a time of unprecedented amounts of appalling music doing the rounds, that bands as special as Lowgold can release gorgeous records like Just Backward of Square. Surprisingly not all of the critics have lavished praise on Lowgold's debut even though it possesses a massive untapped potential. Ok, there's nothing revolutionary going on except straightforward indiepop but it is delivered with a panache and enthusiasm that is altogether too rare. All of the songs bar one were written by singer Darren Ford and while he doesn't depart from the template too often, it hardly seems to matter when this sort of thing has the ability to charm the birds from the trees. His voice is slightly distorted at times adding to the lo-fi feel that many of the tracks possess.

The fact that there are so many precious moments on this album means that it's hard to pick highlights. 'Beauty Dies Young' is certainly one, however, as it takes its lazy attitude and comes up with terrific sonic creations that are as infectious as an airborne virus. 'Open the Airwaves' has a staggered stomp; Ford's vocals melting seamlessly into the mix as a tirade of guitar interruptions surround them. 'Never Alone' evolves from its humble beginnings into a fully fledged orchestral wailing guitar montage. It seeks out those hairs on the back of your neck and toys with them until they stand up and take notice. 'Mercury' is another slow burner that has a chorus to die for as flailing guitar bursts spit fire all round it.

The list of aural pleasures just goes on and on and there's scarcely a duff track in sight. You will look long and hard for an album that consistently lives up to JBOS's high standards. It reminds me most of Wheat's Hope & Adams. It has a cool charm all of its own without ever sounding like it is pushed or hurried. There are also echoes of Doves and early Mogwai peppered throughout which gives JBOS a cosy familiar feel. Intelligent, low-slung guitar movements perfect for public consumption. Start digesting at your earliest convenience.

Rating: 7/10

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