Lightspeed Champions's four-track Bye Bye EP opens with a cover of the Beach Boys's ''Til I Die' which was originally recorded for their 1971 album Surf's Up. Light Speed Champion's new version keeps the essence of the original, while bringing it up-to-date for a more modern audience. However it still has that late '60s, early '70s feel to it.

'Under Water There is Nothing' is an interesting track. Devonté Hynes singing is just enough out of key with the instruments to make most listeners wince slightly. However, towards the end Hynes pulls everything together to illustrate that he was having a little fun with the song. It works well, and adds much to the track as it progresses.

'Bye Bye Icarus' is an odd track which gets better as it builds. The ending blossoms into something impressive as the instruments take over and build to a beautiful conclusion.

'The Mess You're In' is quirky and probably the most enjoyable track on this EP. It also has the best ending.

I couldn't help but be reminded of Thomas Scott (Space) listening to this - they have a similar style. There's less emphasis on actual singing and more trying to talk in a sing-song way. This is a style you're either going to embrace or instantly dislike. On balance I fall into the former category. However, it's the musical arrangements that really impressed me.

7

Nick Smithson