Background Knowledge
Growing Pains is a somewhat strange album in the fact that is written and performed by the same man (although two new members have joined since). Matt Bigland, a self-confessed obsessive fanatic of early Foo Fighters material, is the chap in question.
His obsession reflects in the album's sound. The best way that you could describe its sound is that the first Foo Fighters album is the core ingredient with a dash of Nirvana and an essence of Pixies, which sounds pretty appetising, am I right?
Track-by-Track Review
"Birds & Planes" is a brilliant introduction to the dozen-track album and appeals to a broad range of tastes. It is relatively heavy rock, but somehow it's clever, catchy hooks make it easier on the ear and exceedingly radio friendly despite maintaining a grungy sound throughout.
"Barce-Loner" (a clever pun on words, yes) follows it's predecessor in the fact that it also contains that edgy, grungy guitar tone. The riff is pure rock 'n' roll and could easily trigger a mosh pit.
The third number, "Never That Together" demonstrates a slightly more melodic dimension to the album, sounding fresh but familiarly similar to something that Dave Grohl and company could have written when they themselves were cutting their teeth, whilst "Mona Lisa" once again exhibits a radio-friendly rock sound.
Faint echoes of Pixies are heard on "Broken Knee," which captivates the listener in the way it aggressively lurches from quiet to loud in an instant. "Hey there, tiny flea," the introductory lyrics to "Hey Man (Home You Ruin)," displays Bigland's relatively psychedelic, if not eccentric lyrics, and the guitar solo boasts sheer aptitude.
The superior song of the entire album undoubtedly has to be "My Rock 'n' Roll," where a clever but simple riff work intermingled with a get-up-and-mosh vibe creates a totally unforgettable experience. The two successors to this track -- "Maybe It's You" and "Love to Hate Me" seem rather disappointing, although you could argue that this is probably because "My Rock 'n' Roll" was so good.
Then comes along "Traynor" -- a raucous, rampant, romp -- unarguably the heaviest track on the record. The riff, although simplistic, grabs you by the scruff of the neck and throws you headfirst into an immersion of heavy rock goodness.
The penultimate number, "Hey You" provides a well-deserved breather. It's quiet, acoustic tone provides an atmospheric hypnosis. The album signs off in style with "All Around the World," a track that is a fitting end to a breathtaking debut record.
Conclusion
It's easy to forget that this a debut album because it sounds so mature. Having said that, the freshness achieved by Bigland is a huge factor in the album's appeal.
The album displays the incredible potential the band has and has managed to receive radio air play, although limited. This is a fantastic achievement, and "Growing Pains" is a definite must-have for any rock enthusiast's music collection.
Overall Rating: 9/10
Lewis Tanner - I'm in the same boat as many of you guys. To put it bluntly, I am bored with the music we hear almost relentlessly on the radio stations. ...
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