Hull based band Life release their latest LP, A Picture of Good Health, via Afghan Moon / [PIAS]. At its core, this release is an energetic, modern punk album which never lets up...

Opening with the titular 'A Picture of Good Health', Life manage to sustain the energy and excitement for the album's duration (13 tracks - 32 min, 43 sec). Attention deficit isn't something you'll need to concern yourself with here, as the band grabs you by the ears and screams their message at you... but not in a way that makes it hard to listen to.

'Bum Hour' is as close to indie rock as the band stray. And, in a weird way, it reminded me of a punk version of The B-52's 'Love Shack'. 'Excites Me' has some strange lyrics. They're presumably screeching "It Excites Me", but it actually sounds more like "Eric Sykes Meat". 'Grown Up' is an impressive punk anthem that is catchy and memorable. 'Thoughts' unleashes poem verse, sandwiched by a James-esque chorus. 'Don't Give Up Yet' showcases the band's humour, neatly wrapped in a solid thumping punk anthem. We end with 'New Rose in Love' a poetic outpouring that you'll either love or hate.

While it might not bring anything new to the table, A Picture of Good Health is a good, solid punk rock album which will stay with you for quite some time.

8

Nick Smithson