The Long Blondes - Once And Never Again

Upbeat and catchy, this song imparts words of wisdom to a 19 year-old, advising her; "you don't need a boyfriend." Things turn cynical as vocalist Kate Jackson laments over her lost youth before the menacing finale. The Sheffield quintet's brazen, complex pop tunes are already drawing comparison to the likes of Pulp and Blondie, though sounding nothing like the aforementioned. The breezy riffs and bouncy rhythms, accompanied by Jackson's melodious voice make for a good foot-tapping tune. However, the novelty wears thin before long, ensuring this is a song you'll enjoy once, and possibly never again. [Suzanne Mitchell]