‘Allegro are just not like every band nowadays.’ So proclaims the Press sheet that accompanies the promo copy of the band’s EP.
No – they are just like The Strokes.
I could be unkind and also mention that while most bands that have four tracks detailed on their EP actually provide the listener with four songs, Allegro provide only three, the result being that I am unsure which song I am listening to and which has not transferred onto the disc.
But that would be churlish.
Actually, provided you like The Strokes – especially ‘Last Nite’ -and their very unique (until now, that is) riffs and beats, then you’ll probably like this. All three songs are fast and frenetic, and are carried along by an interesting and different vocal style. I can imagine all three songs being massively popular when played in a small, sweaty intimate venue.
The first two songs are quite similar, but they are of the type that can ride that ‘criticism’ as they are so infectious and are both definitely dance inducing. The guitar work is pretty neat too.
(But I just can’t get rid of The Strokes impression.)
However, the third track on my copy – which is actually called ‘I’ll Be There For You’ – is slightly different. Without doubt, it’s the best of the three. It starts slowly and the vocals sound like Paulo Nutini might after module three in a ten-lesson elocution course. Of course, the pace can’t remain so laid back and bluesy for long so guess what? Yeah – but it’s maybe not so overtly The Strokes this time. The song has more of a quick, shuffling feel, and the vocals continue in the slightly slurred, husky, drawled manner, building to a big ‘La la la la ‘ crescendo before the bass and drums subside to leave the guitar to play out alone. Wait -didn’t ‘Last Nite’ end in a similar manner also?
Anyway – for all I’m being a bit facetious, these are three entertaining little tracks. I would certainly imagine they are stronger played live, but if you can’t get to see this band, they should at least be added to you list of bands to check on MySpace – www.myspace.com/allegroforever