The Enemy

Barely old enough to join the masses to which they preach, Coventry, England's The Enemy have already reached the status of working-class heroes with their classically infectious brand of Brit indie rock/punk. The trio, which consists of guitarist/vocalist Tom Clarke, drummer Liam Watts and bass player Andy Hopkins, draws influence from the likes of early Oasis, The Clash and '70s UK post-punkers The Jam for a decidedly retro sound.

Whether the throwback thing is your bag or not, there's no denying the irresistible catchiness of damn near every song on this album. Opener "Aggro" is a perfect example of a band taking a handful of power chords, adding a rebelliously hooky chorus and creating a modern day anthem. Other rockers found on the album, such as "Away From Here" and "Fear Killed The Youth Of Our Nation" follow this formula as well, but each tune stands on its own legs. In fact, practically any one of the 13 tracks on We’ll Live And Die In These Towns would work well for a single. Shades of Noel and Liam Gallagher's (Oasis) acoustic tunefulness appear on the title track and emotional "Happy Birthday Jane." The band's cover of David Bowie's “5 Years” is a nice touch as well.

As is usually the case when a British outfit decides to invade these shores, The Enemy should, and probably will be, welcomed with open arms. The band’s slick and memorable songwriting style that drapes a thin veil of pop sensibility over a lifetime of angst is exactly what today’s mainstream needs. I dare you to resist this album.

–Ryan Ogle
09.02.08