Algernon Doll's third album Omphalic, sees Ewan Grant break out from his one man band persona as he continues to hone and perfect an alternative guitar sound that harks back to a sound reminiscent of early '90s grunge.

The album is heavily influenced by bands from Nirvana and the Smashing Pumpkins to The Jesus Lizard and Mudhoney. The end result is an up-tempo, driven rock album that is both rich in its abrasive qualities as well as creating memorable hooks and choruses that are willingly addictive.

The '90s grunge sound is easily achieved and, for me, brought back some memories of a more innocent, raw, time in the genre. 'Tamed', in particular, reminded me of Eels's 'Novocain for the Soul'.

This is a fun, upbeat album that will not only appeal to modern grunge fans, but anyone who lived through the '90s scene.

7

Nick Smithson