Sticky second album syndrome casually avoided, The Grandad Galaxy plays out like a day trip to the carnivals. Bursting with ear tickling, eye-dizzying sounds, melodies, effects and songs, it serves up big thrills throughout but occasionally leaves the listener in a sickly sweet state. From the Motown soul sounds of ‘To The Height Of A Frisbee’, to the space-age-pop of ‘Astro’ it’s evident that the Voluntary Butler Scheme aka Rob Jones has more than a way with a tune.
What’s more, weaved throughout the more traditionally arranged songs are some delightful instrumental ditties. Often puzzling – especially on first listen – but genuinely rewarding with repetition. ‘Sky Shed’ and ‘Umbrella Fight’ are particularly cool, bringing to mind Money Mark during his classic Mark’s Keyboard Repair / Push The Button era (pre-Jack Johnson years!).
Whilst there’s nothing on The Granddad Galaxy that hits the highs of ‘Night Driver’ or ‘Multiplayer’ from the Voluntary Butler Scheme’s equally enjoyable debut, At Breakfast, Dinner, Tea, TGG is yet another fun-filled record that’s more than worthy of your space and time.