Scott 4: "Recorded In State LP" (Satellite/V2)

Scott 4 are a three-piece from London, named after Scott Walker's fourth album; their musical heart, however, lies closer to …

Scott 4 are a three-piece from London, named after Scott Walker's fourth album; their musical heart, however, lies closer to Joshua Tree, where the soul of Gram Parsons still haunts the twilight, and their sound mixes hip-hop beats, punk rock riffs and sweet country twang. Alabama 3 they are not, but Beck fans might recognise a similarity in the band's downbeat, urban cowpoke cross-fertilisation. Add in a love of Krautrock (1970s German avant-garde progrock to you, mate) and you've got a strange brew which sounds oddly normal and accessible. There's a flash of Sparklehorse blended with the shimmer of The Eels, but there's also a rugged individuality in tracks such as Deutsche LP Record, Aspirins and Your Kingdom To Dust.

Kevin Courtney

Kevin Courtney

Kevin Courtney is an Irish Times journalist