Russian Spy 7" By The Neighbourhood Strange

Those premier psychedelic sons of Salisbury 'The Neighbourhood Strange' are back with a vengeance with their fabulous 7" release, the topical 'Russian Spy'. If you've seen the band perform live you'll know they're a tight outfit of  consummate musicians delivering their brand of high quality mod-esque psychedelia with panache and brio. That flavour comes across beautifully in both Russian Spy and the flip sides 'Many Secrets' (as well as all the bonus material available on the CD EP release).

The 'A' side 'Russian Spy' has a melody echoing the folk sound of the steppe or that moment in a 60's TV drama when the 'Reds' appear, and a fantastic chorus with an appropriately Red Army sounding harmony, throughout the track is peppered with nods to recent dramatic events in Salisbury and references to the east/west political dichotomy. Russian Spy is a modern cold war classic born of the attempted assassination by nerve agent of 'hero of Russia' and double agent/former spy Sergei Skripal. Though the novichok wasn't strong enough to take out Skripal, what is powerfully strong is this track, which works beautifully both musically and lyrically. The 'B' side 'Many Secrets' ostensibly has a great Mod revival (of the late 70's) feel to it, played at an energetic pace and sung with gusto, also buried in there is that intelligent punk sound I'd associate with bands like The Damned at their peak. Although throughout Bob's wonderful organ ensures the sensibilities of the modernist hey day are maintained. Bob's organ is perfect at conjuring a genuine mid 60's British sound and atmosphere, which to me has a timeless appeal and consistently shines on every track. Whilst, front man Marcus has the perfect demeanour and voice to deliver this punchy fast paced style of mod infused psychedelic pop rock with a side serving of punky asthetic, and he has the swagger to match. We should remember though that a great band is gestalt, created by the contributions all the band members, and so it is with 'The Strange'. Dazman on bass and Matt on drums ensure by their solid performances that the rhythm section on all the tracks is tight and drives the numbers along at an appropriate velocity. Whilst guitarist Mark provides some great guitar riffs, as well as wonderfully proficient and expertly performed string work throughout. Splendid stuff, man!

The Neighbourhood Strange have done it again, they've nailed it. The band deserve more acclaim, it's a wonder to me that The Neighbourhood Strange aren't better known, they really should be. Russian Spy along with their previous 2 single releases showcase their manifest talents as writers and musicians, and their fabulous live performances always hit the spot. There's nothing not to love about this band and their beautifully crafted sound, a sound so broad in appeal that it transcends genre boundaries.  They're all nice fellows to boot. 

Russian Spy is available now on bandcamp as a 7" vinyl single or CD EP, each comes with a digital download of the EP's 5 tracks (Russian Spy, Many Secrets, Mary Mary, Walk On Water, Desert Sand). You can also get a copy of the 7" vinyl single on The Neighbourhood Strange website. I'm sure I'm not alone in hoping that a LP with be forthcoming, it really should, I know the band easily has enough top quality material. Fingers crossed, ay. To be honest where you buy Russian Spy isn't important, that you make certain you do buy it is the paramount thing, don't miss out on this gem (while you're about it check out their previous singles too), bag yourself a copy today! And make sure you catch one of their live performances too, I guarantee you wont be disappointed.