Company Feel Good Album Review

Black Boy Peaches state that their modus operandi is to “write great music, make great records and play amazing gigs.” Clearly they’re well on their way to achieving these goals with the bands debut album ‘Company Feel Good.’ In fact you could say that it’s mission accomplished in many respects. They pursue their goals with brilliant song structures and clever lyrical content that translate excellently into an enjoyable listening experience. Far from being like their fruity namesake, they display a firm understanding of what solid Rock music is all about, the commercial potential of which shouldn’t be underestimated.

The Dunedin based band formed in early 2009 and self recorded and released their debut EP ‘Slasher’ the same year. Their kiwi sound has elements of British indie rock like the Kaiser Chiefs and is also similar to American band the Killers (without the nerd factor). Being comparable to such prominent bands is no mean feat and Black Boy Peaches are musically subtle about their obvious talents. They allow every instrument expressive room to move; the confidence this requires can often take years to achieve.

Vocalist Hamish Mepham really stands out with his natural and likable style similar to John Mayer; and I mean that in the best possible way. Potentially Hamish demonstrates the range of Jeff Buckley and at times a subtle punk rock edge sneaks in, which gives the band their X factor. Along with his brother Tom Mepham on lead guitar and keys, the group round out their sound with Jackson Rodeka on drums and Adam Murray on bass. Together they display clever and engaging musicianship that provides fantastic cohesiveness to all eleven tracks. The song Hesitation is the stand out, which is anything but hesitant in its delivery. With fast paced drums interspersed with synthesizers and wonderful guitar riffs, it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Black Boy Peaches retain an obvious youthful joy in their music, while delivering a comprehensive and professional product. ‘Company Feel Good’ can best be described as one hell of an excellent album. Nicely original while broadening the tried and true, it’s a high energy and sometimes-epic release. Check it out for yourself at any good music store nearby.