The Mysterines prove that British rock is still the real deal on their relentless debut Reeling

Focusing on heartache and the self-destruction it can enable, Reeling walks us through a range of scenarios frequently resulting in emotional pain and grief, but does so in a dry and dark-humoured way which perfectly matches the dynamic and deep sound backing Lia Metcalfe’s stellar vocals. Such pains are easily relatable and give the listener a voice and attitude to latch onto in order to process their own frustrations through cathartic head bangers that still feature a smirk; as the whirring and gleeful opener declares, “life is a bitch but I like it so much”.

Moody basslines underpin a riveting, whirring soundscape that never stops driving relentlessly forward throughout this experience. “Hung Up” is an unforgiving stomper of a single and “The Bad Thing” gets faster and faster as a sense of desperation sets in, meanwhile “Under Your Skin” sparks a euphoric chill up your spine with a soundscape that satisfyingly explodes by the end of the compact run-time.

Heavy instrumentation deftly intertwined with echoing melodies results in a great balance that makes Reeling hospitable yet purifying. Uplifting reflection is offered here too, as “All These Things” proves with a surprisingly sweet tone and swelling chorus during which an admittance of regret can be understood. When Metcalfe declares “I saw the darkness and I knew it well”, it’s easy to believe her.

Making a huge impression with a ferocity that shines through live recordings, this Liverpudlian four-piece draw you in with their seething words and mountainous rock tones then, through their modern and dramatic flair on a classic sound, tight and humoured musings on life’s painful inevitabilities are played out over thirteen glorious tracks. The band demonstrate the excitement bubbling beneath the surface of the UK rock scene, ready to pierce through its thin veil at any moment – Reeling is that moment for The Mysterines, and it’s a debut you won’t forget in a hurry.