Cal 22 - Bunch of Beats

  by Dave Goodwin

published: 26 / 1 / 2013

Label: Sixty Four Records
Format: CDS

intro

Confident new EP from anthemic Midlands-based four-piece Cal 22, whose members are still in their teens

One of the highlights of the three day downpour that was Glastonbury 2011 was a band from the Cannock region of the Midlands called Cal 22. This young bunch of whippersnappers brought the tent down during their brilliant 20 odd minutes on the Saddle Span Stage. The frightening thing, however, was that they were all still at school at the time. Not just in school but with a couple of years still to go! Time has moved on slowly since then for these lads, but it has not been uneventful. They have since added another member in Alex Jones, who has brought in extra guitar which complements the original trio of Ben Phillips on guitar and lead vocals, Mitch Dodd on bass and backing vocals and Christian Chalmers on drums. I have to admit that when I saw them at Glastonbury I thought they were quite eclectic and had a diverse sound, but no general direction. The first two tracks, 'Broken Strings' and 'These Lines', are tinged with the influences of the Jam and the Who, but these anthemic opening tracks beg for a listen and confirm that these boys have moved on. There is some soaring vocals and honest guitar playing here. It seems that the flat-capped one is growing a new set of lungs. It also seems that the short one behind the drum kit has grown a new pair of arms. The fair-haired bassist’s meanderings meanwhile complement the new addition. It is all proof that they are growing stronger by the day. The title track gives you a taste of the strength of the new member, while 'Make You Proud' is a slower Oasis-like affair about wanting to write a song to be proud of. They have had a couple of setbacks in their live work as well as having to cope with the rigours of exams. So how come do they sound so tight and older than they are? They have got good backing behind them. and they have also got that certain confidence, that swagger and that eagerness to carry on and keep on trying to make good music. One day these boys are going to shine. But for now, you will have to make do with a few lucky live sets and this amazing EP which is already making some people very proud.

Track Listing:-