Nebraska - The Great Divide

by Anthony Strutt

published: 24 / 6 / 2008

Label: Nebraska Music
Format: 7"

intro

Fine vinyl only single from feisty Blackheath-based rockers, Nebraska

I first met the guys in Nebraska one afternoon in London's Blackheath, where we are both based, when they were taking their instruments on the train up to a gig in Coventry. I have often chatted to lead singer, Michael Hall, about our favourite musicians, in the local video shop where he works, but didn't see the band live until recently, where I was totally blown away. As well as Michael on vocals, the band also consists of Ben Todd on guitars, Ben Stock on bass, and Jarrod Pizzata on drums. 'The Great Divide' is the first fruits from the second album which they are currently working on. Blackheath is squeezed between Lewisham on one side and Charlton on the other, and the only other big band to come from these parts is Squeeze. Nebraska are a hard edged band that live in the real world, and sing about the real struggle of life and how we all just get by. Influenced by everyone decent within music but especially the Smiths, the Smashing Pumpkins and the Hold Steady. Nebraska deserve your ears, and should you give up your time to listen to them. You won't be disappointed either. They sound on this like a better Smashing Pumpkins and have a Smiths groove about them, but with a harder edge and without them being so shy or hidden away in the bedroom.