Cardiff’s The Steers follow up last years ‘Rewind/Repeat’ with another déjà vu driven blast of Britpop past. ‘Julia’ kicks off encouragingly enough, rampant guitar and disco drums underpinning this tale of a relationship doomed. Unfortunately the familiar angsty mod pop lacks much in complexity and, though it is easy on the ear, the overcooked production and simplistic formula all seem a little contrived. B-Side ‘The Same Game’ is more distinctive and at least has a bit of menace about it, but lead singer James’ impression of Kele Okereke can grate. The Steers are clearly a capable bunch but would do well to use a little more imagination next time around.
Gerard McCann
The Steers - Julia
