Peco: The Middle Ages review – If you like bands that peaked in the 1990s, you’ll love this

Hopefully, Peco will develop confidence to explore new terrain

The Middle Ages
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Artist: Peco
Genre: Rock
Label: Live Loud Music

It’s often said that contemporary music lacks originality. It isn’t a crime for musicians to be influenced by the artists who originally inspired them to pick up an instrument, disassemble chord structures, and pen lyrics expressing a disdain for convention. That said, one would hope for any aspiring musician to forge their own style along the way.

On Peco's debut album, The Middle Ages, the Kildare-based indie outfit, formerly known as Valentine Black, proffer more sonic traces of popular English bands that peaked in the 1990s instead of honing a distinct individual sound.

Hiding behind the familiar tones of Manic Street Preachers, James, and Suede, a Brett Anderson inflection veils the vocals throughout the ten tracks – notably on Queen of Chaos.

The Middle Ages holds little relevance for today's music fan. Sonically, a startling resemblance to The Beautiful South's iconic riff on Perfect Ten is integral to Harpoon's hook, a memorable moment from the record.

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Hopefully, when the time comes for Peco’s sophomore release, we’ll hear nuance and confidence to explore new terrain and not revisit the paths conquered by others.