Bubblegum girl pop has been a mainstay of the music biz throughout the years with a particular vein seemingly running through the independents. Sure, there were frequent outbursts, with the inimitable Altered Images coming to mind, but there has never been a band which has stirred up such passionate responses as “pantomime pop”.
That’s what Baby Brave get accuse of being but with this, an EP of five songs, they have aimed to set the record straight. Hailing from the North Wales town of Wrexham where there seems to be a bubbling scene at the moment, this is possibly the only female fronted band of note. And not just one, but two girls, with their intertwined voices creating a sunny outburst of joy and ecstasy.
Cockroach kicks off proceedings with its joyful abandon and showcases the charming and knowing vocal talent. Guitars chime in the background like some long lost indie classic from the 1980’s. Sugar overload is approached but then diverted by the superior 24 Blues which slows the pace and allows time for the girls to breathe. Remember…the hills won’t intervene!
Hedgehog passes you by but it is the next track which stirs things up. The Gallic Laisse Le Chick Habit with its Austin Powersesque guitar motif demonstrates the more sinister side to Baby Brave. It is this side which makes them such an interesting prospect, all great pop music needs a dark side and these have it in the bucketload when they want to let loose.
Final track Take Your Castle to Spain is a genuine pop classic with added flute. If this song doesn’t make you smile then you are not human. It’s a clear reminder that Baby Brave have a lot more to deliver and they leave you wanting more. Long may they reign and give us such joyful abandonment. An utter joy.
Out now through Drum With Our Hands.
Words by Martyn Coppack.
