Kitty, Daisy & Lewis – Smoking In Heaven

Kitty, Daisy & Lewis are one of those good old fashioned bands that always deliver; if they say you’ll be home by ten, you’ll be tucked up in bed by half past with your curlers in. They don’t simply look to the past for inspiration – they become the past, until it’s difficult to tell whether you’re listening to some kids from Durham or an old 78 your mum found in the attic. They’re so dedicated to the authenticity of their music that they eschew modern recording technology, and their latest album Smoking In Heaven was recorded using ribbon microphones and analogue tape to get that gritty lo-fi sound.

Their style has evolved from their last self titled LP, and we see their collection of genres expanding to include a myriad of ’40s and ’50s influences, from jazz through to the straight-up rockabilly they do so well. We also see a new penchant for ska develop in this album, with tracks such as ‘I’m So Sorry’ and ‘Tomorrow’ – it’s like a slap in the face from a coiffed ponytail to the critics that say they’re incapable of progressing because they rely on the past.

Whilst there are a few dubious points of the album – the opening Flight of the Conchords guitar riffs for starters – they are quickly recovered by the finger picked melodies, sultry vocals and some ridiculously infectious hooks. Each song is perfectly formed with a multitude of layers that thread loosely throughout the album to create a cohesive collection of self contained hits.

Now, although my flat looks like my Grandma’s house has thrown up all over it, littered with ’50s throwbacks and charity shop tat, Kitty, Daisy & Lewis’ music doesn’t just appeal to luddites like me. Never before have I heard a band so adept to please all – from old ladies who appreciate the well behaved innocence of their music to the new generation of Shoreditch hipsters who can appreciate a bit of rock n roll with the best of us.