Following their successful February tour, the Villains release Gospel Bombs, an effervescent, retro collection of ditties with big label, E.M.I.

Eccentrically ‘common’ accents and ska riffs place this album in line with popular artists like The Ordinary Boys and Jack Penate. However the so-catchy-it’s-itching punk riffs mellowed by swing drum beats locate this album in a parking lot unto itself. Tracks like ‘Sins of Love (Wah Do)’ see influence from oldies like The Eagles’ Hotel California, while ‘Killing Time’ reflects a Buddy Holly vibe. It’s truly an amalgamation of styles, but firmly located in a realm full of vintage frocks, mint green diners and rocky-horror theatricals. (Jane Dawson)