A satisfying Summer release for the older rock crowd or those interested in some psychedelically-tinged, retro barroom grooves, Section 10’s refreshing debut LP Neither Here Nor There has arrived. Underpinned with the laidback bounce and swing of drummer Eddie Fisher, the pulsing bass of Michael Walton and the rich improvisational lead guitar of Ian Willis, Section 10 skilfully contrast the urgency of Michele Guerin’s storytelling vocals with a relaxed and comfortable party vibe from the five-piece. Main songwriter, rhythm guitarist and synth player Ian Collins’ chosen genres allow room for stylistic variety over the eight tracks, stretching from jumpy surf and disco on ‘The Surfie’ and ‘Disco Dog’, to the ominous lurch of ‘Wrecking Ball’ and ‘Devil’s Lake’. The latter finds inspiration from the tale of a lover’s letter thrown and forgotten in a lake at night, only to resurface years later as lyrical content for shady blues. Recorded, mixed and mastered by Stewart Peters at Soundshed Music Productions, Neither Here Nor There immediately comes snaking out of speakers with warmth and intimacy. A near century’s combined musical experience from Section 10 instil all songs with the perfect balance of exploration, directness, personality and punch. Tightly played tracks to loosen up with.
• ORIGINALLY WRITTEN FOR THE HAZE MAGAZINE, JANUARY 2019