Fight Like Apes
The Body of Christ and the Legs of Tina Turner

There's really no way around the fact that Fight Like Apes are one of the most raucously energetic and fun bands in the country at the moment. Whether or not you subscribe to their particular brand of synth-infused pop-punk, even the most ardent of naysayers would have to admit that there is a reason that these guys have been making some pretty big waves not only at home but abroad too. But will The Body of Christ and the Legs of Tina Turner be their tsunami?

Fight Like Apes and The Mystery of the Golden Medallion was undoubtedly one of the finest debut albums of 2008 and it would have been easy to produce a counterfeit facsimile of that record, sit back and let the plaudits roll in. To their credit, Fight Like Apes have expanded beyond that and made an album which, while containing the same furious energy, has an identity all of its own. Opener 'Come On, Let's Talk About Our Feelings' eases you into the record comfortably before exploding with drums and synth half a minute in, perfectly setting the tone for the rest of the album.

Songs like 'Pull Off Your Arms and Let's Play In Your Blood' contain a bouncy, singalong pomp. MayKay's vocals have the capability to be turned up to 11 on a moment's notice, but conversely 'Thank God You Weren't Thirsty' has a surprising subtle tenderness showing that, yes, the Apes can do restraint too when it's needed.

The Body of Christ and the Legs of Tina Turner will undoubtedly be measured against its predecessor but this album has a definite life of its own. The production is multi-layered without being overwhelming, the pace is satisfying and varied - but forget all that mumbo jumbo. It sounds great and isn't that what it's all about?

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