The Natural History - 'Beat Beat Heartbeat' (Startime International)
3/5
By: Joshua K
Imagine a world where Elvis Costello and The Wedding Present are the musical templates upon which today's coolest bands are based, rather than Blondie or ESG. Where vocals delivered in a slightly detached nasal tone are the height of fashion. Where mid-paced indie still rules the charts.
Young New York rock-trio The Natural History live in that alternate universe. And bless 'em for that. Because there's always a place for New Wave power-pop done well.
... Oh, I saw that look. Don't deny it. You know that a bit of rhythmic drumming and jangling guitar - administered in just the right dose - yields satisfying results. The 'right dose' in this instance being eleven songs in 28 minutes, a tight debut delivered at a steady pace... yes, like a heartbeat.
Things start off in fine fashion with the melodic chug of 'Facts Are' and 'Watch This House' before launching into one of the standout tracks, the clanging 'The Right Hand', as currently featured on the 'Yes New York' cult-compilation. Another highlight, 'Broken Language', then breaks from the rest of the LP's mould by successfully harnessing Gang of Four, with a hint of the reggae-beat from Costello & The Attractions' 'Watching the Detectives', in a mere 1:45.
The final third of the album, meanwhile, is marked by three fine elements: the hypnotic 'run run' chorus from 'Run de Run' (think David Gedge at his finest); the Smithsian sentiments and Morrissey vocal quavers of 'Hours From My Life' (sample lyric: 'Why, why do they keep me waiting?'); and the incessant drum pattern that defines 'Telling Lies Will Get You Nowhere'.
Yes, The Natural History are still in search of their 'Veronica'. But so are all the other indie boys. In the meantime, while this doesn't break any new ground, it'll do just dandily.
Artists in this article: The Natural History
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