Leeds' Van Houten are indie rock with a quiet/loud dynamic which sounds like a Scottish indie/post rock band covering the more maudlin Weezer tracks. They have a sound which is quite hard to pinpoint as there are elements of indie, alt rock and post rock in their sound. Instrumentally, they remind me a little of Arab Strap too. Decent.
Thus Love open with a magnificent 'Repetitioner', its gorgeous Johnny Marr-esque guitar lines complimented by Echo Marshall's rich vocals. 'In Tandem' sounds like Julian Casablancas covering Joy Division, cool laid back vocals laid over a tight post-punk groove. 'Family Man' sounds less like a post-punk Lloyd Cole live than it does on record. They also sound less like The Smiths than they do on record, mainly because the Johnny Marr style guitar work is less pronounced live. They sound rawer, less refined and a little yobbish which makes for a thrilling live experience. When Echo really sings, she sounds great, like a cross between the aforementioned Casablancas, Cole and Neil Hannon. 'Pith And Point' is majestic, whilst the roar of feedback which precedes 'Centerfield' is magnificent. The driving, soaring 'Put On Dog' closes the regular set in an excellent fashion.
Thus Love *****
Van Houten ****
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