ALBUM REVIEW: The Rattlebacks - Sidewinder

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The Rattlebacks - Sidewinder

A recent encounter with Brighton’s The Rattlebacks came earlier this year at Fuel Rock Club in Cardiff when the band were the opening support on the Tailgunner spring run. I don’t recall their music in great detail but they had a swagger and groove that pulled through a hard rock sound mixed with grunge and alternative which was thrillingly both retrospective and contemporary. A heady mix indeed. 

The Rattlebacks

I’ll freely admit that they were not a band who remained on my radar but when guitarist Jack 'Coxy' Cox contacted me with a link to their debut album Sidewinder,  I was more than happy to give it a listen. I was not disappointed, for this is one fine album. 11 tracks that highlight the band’s quality with some excellent performances and song writing. 

The Rattlebacks

It’s a strong opener with The Taste, which punches hard with a definite Alice in Chains vibe soaking through the core of the band’s sound. Lovely harmonies blend with a dirty, sleazy delivery, allowing vocalist Josh Clarke room to do his stuff. Single Dementia Lounge is picking up decent hits on streaming services, and it’s easy to see why with a genuine confident approach that makes a clear statement. 

As the album progresses there is plenty to enjoy. Each song is different from the previous one, with little to no repetition. From the bluesy strut of Open Your Mind through to the dark thick riff of Swing and the melancholic ballad Behind You, it’s a varied and well-crafted album that demonstrates the quality that The Rattlebacks bring to the table. 

By the time you get to album closer Lazy Brian, a track that soars with an Aerosmith / Rival Sons style sound, you’ll be itching to get this going round again. It’s an addictive ride and one that lovers of hard rock should embrace. Sidewinder is a fine debut album indeed.

Sidewinder is out now and available on all streaming services.
Review and live photo by Hutch



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