大象传媒

On this, the second post-Sharkey album, The Undertones bash out 14 tracks in just over half an hour. That may seem like bad value to people who measure their music by the yard, but it was never the issue with this band.

The Undertones were never about tedium or outstaying their welcome. Their 1978-83 career resulted in four beautiful, pithy albums. They were loyal to the riff and to The Ramones. And when they returned with 'Get What You Need' in 2003, the essence hadn't changed much. Likewise with this concise, roaring release.

Each song is pruned to bonsai perfection. The guitar notes are all essential. Mickey Bradley's harmonies are unfussy but cool. 'Easy Way Out' taunts and scorns like the New York Dolls while 'Happy Valley' recalls the charm of That Petrol Emotion's 'It's A Good Thing'.

There's a lovely fragile moment called 'Move Right In' that wonders the city lovestruck, a 'Sunday Morning' for the Foyle-side set. The greatest creation of the lot is probably 'Fight My Corner' which combines glam rock with a dubby, hip hop edge. John O'Neill was exploring this area with his Rare project ten years ago, and it seems he's not done yet. It's a wonderful song.

In case you ever doubted it, The Undertones are playing purely for the love of it.

Stuart Bailie