SINGLE REVIEW: Weekly Round-Up 15/09/25 - 21/09/25

Words by Nigel Jones

Dirty Suits – Blackwater Bay
Dirty Suits return with “Blackwater Bay,” a track that blends sea shanty spirit with an accessible pop sensibility. It opens with a fuzzy bassline that sets a murky, atmospheric tone before the song steadily opens up. There’s an undertone of Nick Cave in the scowling delivery, which carries real presence as it drives through each section. Well written and confidently structured, it’s a track that balances grit with clarity, helped along by tight production. “Blackwater Bay” is a strong single that shows off the band’s character and craft in equal measure.

Beast Killer – Have Fun
“Have Fun” kicks off with high-energy riffage that grabs attention straight away. The pace is relentless, giving the track an urgent bite that’s easy to get swept up in. A little more space between those riffs could add even greater impact, but as it stands, the song delivers a sharp jolt of catchy chaos. Short, punchy, and loaded with energy, it’s the kind of track built for repeat plays in a live setting.

The Late Star – Rock U
“Rock U” has the bones of a classic garage rock tune, with raw vocals leading the charge and a familiar but satisfying structure that keeps things moving. The band’s energy is clear throughout, and there’s a confidence in how they put the pieces together. With a touch more atmosphere or a darker edge, this could lean into a Black Rebel Motorcycle Club mood, but even as it stands, it’s a promising track that shows The Late Star have plenty to build on.

Viva Los Villains – Live Fast
“Live Fast” begins deceptively mellow with a semi-acoustic intro before cranking things up with heavy guitars and driving rhythms. The shift feels surprising in the best way, giving the track a real kick of unpredictability. The post-chorus drop works especially well, adding balance to the song’s momentum. Even with a few flourishes that could be pared back, the core of the track is strong — full of grit, personality, and an exciting sense of contrast.

Tom Elliot – Love is a Dog From Hell
There’s a raw honesty running through “Love is a Dog From Hell,” and it’s that simplicity which makes it so effective. The arpeggiated guitar lines weave seamlessly into the verses, while the vocals carry a sense of warmth and authenticity. There’s an air of Idlewild and even flashes of Wunderhorse here, but the track never feels derivative — it’s Elliot’s own voice that holds it together. Solid, heartfelt, and unpretentious, this is a songwriter at ease with their craft.

Never Enough – A Last Goodbye
“A Last Goodbye” wastes no time, throwing vocals straight into the mix and channelling that classic pop-punk urgency. The verses and pre-chorus keep things tight and focused, setting up a chorus that bursts through with big hooks and real sing-along potential. While it follows a familiar blueprint, the strength of the chorus makes it shine. It’s a track that fans of the genre will grab onto quickly, and it shows Never Enough know exactly how to land a big moment.