Originally written by Tom Edwards · 29 September 2003
Alfie
Stuntman
Label: Regal Release Date: 29/09/2003
Alfie still sound a fair bit like The Charlatans, but at least they’ve shed a few shades of twee since we last heard ‘em. Disturbingly, the verse of ‘Stuntman’ (the bits with the cracking guitar riff) sound kind of like the NAM equivalent of Hundred Reasons' ‘If I Could’. No, really.
Most encouragingly, the band seem to have developed a firmer grasp of songwriting than was evident on their past work. The song does meander a little, but it does so with purpose this time. So, like, that makes it okay. There’s also a touch of Syd Barrett-esque paranoia under the waves of shiny harmonies which is pleasantly unnerving.
• 7 Tom Edwards's Score