Album Review: Westside Cowboy - 'It Goes On'
Westside Cowboy exceed big expectation with mature debut album.
The term ‘Indie poo’ has blown up online, a genre that is tagged on acts who lack originality and authenticity in their rock sound. It is an unfair label that discourages young, upcoming bands who are still honing their craft, as well as eager listeners who have found something they are genuinely passionate about. But if we were to entertain this new fad, there isn’t a term that would be less apt for Westside Cowboy and their debut album It Goes On, releasing 21st August. As an outfit they ooze ingenuity and freshness. They evoke a vintage folk sound whilst feeling so progressive in the way it is combined with rock elements.
Their second EP So Much Country ’Til We Get There has enough substance to be a full release, packed into only 14 minutes. Therefore, a brilliant, sprawling album of real quality was no surprise. None of those five songs on the EP feature on It Goes On, making a whole new lineup of tunes even more impressive.
It Goes On is highly anticipated with the Manchester four-piece finding themselves on countless ‘one to watch’ lists across the past few years and even earning themselves the support slot on Geese’s sold-out European tour. The album matches those expectations and more.
Lead single ‘Kick Stones (The Boys)’ kicks it off and is sensory and nostalgic. Its frantic climax is intense but is subtly layered and built up, only to be scaled back down the same way. It's a complete journey in itself, reminiscing about youthful boredom.
‘Big Wheels’ is a fun tune that references Tina Turner’s ‘Proud Mary’ and Bob Dylan’s ‘Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door’, reminding us that Westside Cowboy are only just at the start of their career, at the heels of these music legends, despite their supreme maturity.
‘Coyote’, ‘Patchwork’ and ‘Take My Leaving As I Love You’ represent a slower section and feature the album's most stripped back instrumentals and tender vocals. Many of their tracks start out this way but slowly build up, so these stand out and represent something we haven't seen from them before.
In this way, the whole album feels fresh and innovative. It uses classic sounds in a way that feels so modern. The entire runtime carries through with it a steady, chugging beat making it feel, regardless of overarching themes and imagery, effortlessly cohesive and constructed. It is consistently impactful and energetic.
Each member of the band offers their vocals which weave by each other, creating delicious harmonies. This aspect adds dynamism to the outfit as they each bring their own flavours and perspectives, particularly when they sing alone.
They are set to embark on a UK and EU tour across October, November and December, showcasing their talents in iconic venues like O2 Forum Kentish Town and Manchester’s Albert Hall. They are just as strong live as they are in the recording booth, making these shows well worth any trip.
Despite all the hype surrounding them, Westside Cowboy feel unbelievably mature for a band only just releasing their debut effort. This one exceeds expectations, so who knows how far they could go?
Words by Luca Jarman
