Manchester alternative four-piece Shooting Pigeons have released their first EP and it’s certainly a winner. Having formed two years ago after being thrown together at Altrincham High School, the band have been working on their debut release for a long time, delivering a solid polished record. With influences ranging from Bombay Bicycle Club to Nirvana, their sound incorporates elements of indie, alternative and even touches of punk and grunge in places.
Opening up with the six minute title track, City Of Peace struck me as a re-worked version of the Chili Peppers’ Under The Bridge both in sound and content. Melodic riffs set to a laid-back vibe. With two bursts of alternative instrumental, it’s a track that is built on frontman Jack Corcoran’s voice with stripped back guitars acting as support. The smokey air to it puts you in mind of a city that is sleeping, creating a tranquil atmosphere that could really captivate an audience in a small live venue. City Of Peace is made to be performed in an intimate setting.
In contrast, Dirt Poor is a short three minute burst of poppy happiness. Upbeat and quirky, the bass turns a little funky and the guitars add that signature alternative edge. The vocals adopt an indie slant and the punk begins to creep in within the instrumental breaks. The electrifying guitar solos really steal the show and the fuzzy whine of the riffs are very reminiscent of late Nirvana.
Hindsight (Dutch) is a classic indie track with a toe-tapping riff, which kicks in at the one minute mark. A Brit sound infiltrates the indie vocal, which sings a very catchy melody and it ends up being pretty similar to the material from The Vaccines’ first album. Dark and sexy with the power to make you want to get up and dance, it’s a track that is a great party playlist addition.
Closing the EP on another guitar-heavy number, Billiken begins with a chilled intro featuring funky guitar and a tribal drum beat. Although the vocals are quite monotone, the guitar once again sets the track on fire. The retro-infused, electric riff constantly reloads itself and with the amount of gritty instrumentals, it’s another track that is ready made for a live set. Ending on a twangy solo that gives a nod to an American influence, it’s rounded off well and the band have to be pleased with their first effort.