CD Review: Ocean Colour Scene, "A Hyperactive Workout for the Flying Squad"

Over the years, Ocean Colour Scene has furtively marched on with fine, modern interpretations of classic psychedelic-era rock nuggets from their native U.K. It's a winning formula that the band is sticking with on its latest release, "A Hyperactive Workout for the Flying Squad."

The melodic essence that has kept the band afloat for more than 15 years continues unabated, driven by Steve Craddock's guitars--which blend mod, psychedelic and Britpop styles--and Simon Fowler's Northern-soul vocal harmonies. Even Oasis acolyte Noel Gallagher has called them "the second best band in Britain."

Hat-tips to the past on this set include some great, Wings-esque horn and string sections on "Free My Name," and mandolin and accordion parts reminiscent of Small Faces on "This Day Should Last Forever." There's also a fine cover of George Harrison's "Wah Wah."

Also notable are guest appearances by mod forefathers Jools Holland and Paul Weller on "Waving Not Drowning" and acid-jazz/soul songstress Carleen Anderson on "God's World."

Taken from http://www.livedaily.com/news/7976.html