A Royal Release

When an independent-label band makes the brave move of re-releasing an album on a major label, it seems that the cries of ‘Sell-out!’ (usually from people with too much time on their hands) are as inevitable as they are predictable.

However, the King Blues’ original release of ‘Under The Fog’ on Household Name Records was a woefully unsung highlight of 2006; and if this move to Island results in some solid recognition for the band, then it’ll be no more than they deserve.

The original record was breathtaking and highly effective in its simplicity. Recorded in just four days, songs like ‘Mr Music Man’ and ‘Chimp In A 3 Piece Suit’ took influence from traditional ska and reggae, protest folk, dub and 60’s soul. There was a gloriously renegade attitude on display throughout – perhaps unsurprising, given that vocalist Jonny ‘Itch’ Fox has long been involved in the London punk and squat scenes.

Unsurprisingly, the production is a little slicker this time around, although not to the detriment of the overall sound or spirit. The addition of organ to the title track is a nice extra touch, as are the extra lyrics sprinkled throughout the songs, but the added percussion on ‘Taking Over’ detracts somewhat from the understated charm of the original.

Overall, however, this is an excellent debut from a band that offer a socially aware message for the head, and plenty of beats for the feet. If you missed out first time around, then here’s your chance to catch up with the King Blues.