As an opening declaration of intent the first moments of Lomax's debut album takes some beating. With a ferocious assault of percussion and throbbing bass, 'The Bodies Of Journalists' is every bit as threatening as its title promises. This track and the remainder of 'A Symbol Of Modern Living' are also characterised by their frontman's Paul Weller-style scattershot grunting, re-affirming beliefs that Lomax's spiritual forefathers are The Jam. Thankfully, Lomax are not mere impersonators. The album is peppered with relentless energy and muscular rhythm. Cracking efforts such as 'Armstein's Ladder' and 'When The Pressure's On' are thoroughly memorable and spit-and-bile anthem 'Modern Life' could have appeared on Radio 4's excellent 'Gotham!' album. In fact only the lengthy 'An End' seems directionless. That apart, those who appreciate politically-charged anger allied with sharp hooks should investigate further.
As an opening declaration of intent the first moments of Lomax's debut album takes some beating. With a ferocious assault of percussion and throbbing bass, 'The Bodies Of Journalists' is every bit as threatening as its title promises. This track and the remainder of 'A Symbol Of Modern Living' are also characterised by their frontman's Paul Weller-style scattershot grunting, re-affirming beliefs that Lomax's spiritual forefathers are The Jam. Thankfully, Lomax are not mere impersonators. The album is peppered with relentless energy and muscular rhythm. Cracking efforts such as 'Armstein's Ladder' and 'When The Pressure's On' are thoroughly memorable and spit-and-bile anthem 'Modern Life' could have appeared on Radio 4's excellent 'Gotham!' album. In fact only the lengthy 'An End' seems directionless. That apart, those who appreciate politically-charged anger allied with sharp hooks should investigate further.
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