For a band that has made their mark at UK and international festivals such as Reading & Leeds, Isle Of Wight and SXSW, Tijuana Bibles are only just dropping their debut album, Free Milk. Comprised of Tony Costello (vocals), Danny Costello (bass), James Brannigan (guitar) and Mikey Dornan (drums), this Scottish quartet gives the UK rock scene a run for its money. Blending indie with punk, Tijuana Bibles‘ album addresses feelings of frustration, isolation and anxiety as the world changes dramatically.
Early on in Free Milk, the band sets up the torture of isolation with Pariah. The first thing to note is the influence of the Arctic Monkeys‘ 2007 – 2014 era, with their use of dissonance and elongated words, but angrier than the Sheffield band. Tony Costello’s vocals are clear and controlled as he screams “I’m a pariah”. The frustration of being an outcast is apparent in the way he sings. Although not the most ambitious lyrically, Pariah is a great song to sing when annoyed at the world. Likewise, this track is all about the angst and Tony Costello demonstrates that he has the range and skills to rival the likes of IDLES and, of course, Arctic Monkeys.
Midway through the album, other influences become apparent. In particular, Queens Of The Stone Age on Architect. With less dissonance and licks to rival Queens Of The Stone Age. Danny Costello, Brannigan and Dornan created a track full of catchy riffs and could easily be an opening theme song to a James Bond film.
As for lyrics, this track has a clear message of displeasure at the current political situation with references to “this is the room where the president sleeps”, “I don’t see the likes of you in the circles that move” and “the puppets only dance by the puppeteer’s command”. With deep allusions, Tony Costello illustrates that the public is watching and aware of the divide politicians create between communities. They and others have become disillusioned with following what the government tells them, as they are nothing but puppets of the elite; they are not for the everyday person.
Another standout track is Human Touch; it matches the energy Tijuana Bibles brings to Pariah. The music contrasts with the lyrics and the desperation that Tony Costello gives as he hauntingly sings “human touch”. There is a lot of emotion, and could easily give Alex Turner of the Arctic Monkeys or Josh Homme of Queens Of The Stone Age a run for their money.
If Arctic Monkeys and Queens Of The Stone Age collaborated, it would sound like Tijuana Bibles with a Scottish twang. Tijuana Bibles found a sound that blends two popular bands and make it their own. With the hyped energy of Pariah, the anthem booming of The Wave and suave of Billionairhead, a lot is going on in this album. As a debut album, the band is promising. Keep an eye out in the next few years and you will not be disappointed.
7/10
Standout Tracks: Three is a Cult, The Wave, Pill
For Fans Of: Arctic Monkeys, Queens Of The Stone Age, IDLES
Written by: Jo Lisney
