Sea Kings - Woke in the Devil's Arms

by Dave Goodwin

published: 12 / 7 / 2014

Label: Iffy Folk Records
Format: CD

Promising debut album from eclectic Glaswegian alternative rockers, the Sea Kings

Review

'Woke in the Devil's Arms' is the debut full-length album from the Sea Kings, and follows on from their EP, 'Some Dark Matters'. The Glaswegian outfit, which consists of Brian Canning (lead vocals/guitar), Nicky Kelly (lead guitar), Ralph Hector (bass)and Steph McGrath (drums) have benefitted from playing their hometown extensively over the last few years, and then more recently branching out further afield where they have appeared at the likes of Penn Festival in Buckinghamshire where they headlined the Winchmore Stage on the Saturday night. The first title track is very reminiscent of Six by Seven, and the next few songs drift along somewhat until we come to the indie sound of 'Bible John', the single release that accompanies this package. About an infamous 60's Glaswegian serial killer, it mixes Haircut 100 guitar with a touch of the Smiths and some great pop beats. There are some quieter tracks like the next song, 'Have You Not Hurt Me Enough?', but in terms of genre 'Woke in the Devil's Arms' is quite eclectic with sounds from all different quarters. 'Is Paris Burning', for instance, is a country number that is soaked in Del Amitri tones. The next song 'Scarecrows' returns to the Six by Seven style, while 'Church and State' has a mellow sound. 'Decadence and Decline' is another faster affair, and it all comes to a close with the haunting and eerie 'Across the Coals'. It all comes in a well-packaged green and gold booklet that includes lyrics and credits, and is a strong debut album that should get them noticed especially if, despite its subject matter, the single 'Bible John gets enough plays on the radio.

Track Listing:-

1 Woke In the Devil's Arms
2 Moonlit Range
3 Moonlit Range
4 Bible John
5 Have You Not Hurt Me Enough?
6 Is Paris Burning?
7 Scarecrows (Or Greetings From the
8 Church and State
9 Church and State
10 Across the Coals