Natalie Healey and Sophie Peacock, like their Skep Wax label founders, understand how to make indie that's tuneful and bright, and still pointed and smart. Mad Half Hour is the debut album from this band, and it's full of charming stuff that should get the toes to tapping, and the brain to thinking.
"Get Me" is sharp and crunchy, a throwback gem, while "Still the Bad Guy" is like a more politically-aware version of The Pipettes. "Say You're Sorry" made me think of Rose Elinor Dougall and Gwenno's old group too, with the vocals here from Sophie and Natalie having the warmest of vibes. A listener can hear why Amelia Fletcher and Rob Pursey signed this lot to their imprint, and why Panic Pocket just opened up for a reunited Heavenly. The material here is as summery as it can be in terms of mood, even as the lyrics reward a careful listener.
"Out of the Woodwork" reveals the sound of coming to terms with one's past, while "I've Earned My Right to be Petty" puts paid to those who cravenly show-off on social media. "Don't Get Me Started", the closer here, ambles forward on a stately hook, even as the words tackle the difficulties of relationships. The hook here is a big one, nearly Slade-like in its pomp, while the emotions are more personal still. Panic Pocket may not be explicitly trying to change the world, but there's a sharp awareness of sexual politics and gender issues lurking in these lyrics. Sophie and Natalie are not going to beat you over the head with the ideas, but, like pioneers Le Tigre, and pop idols Spice Girls, they're going to proclaim girl power while pursuing their musical goals.
Mad Half Hour by Panic Pocket is out this week via Skep Wax.
[Photo: Carl Farrugia]