Nikolas Barrell - The Gin Club

Newcomer Nikolas Barrell's debut has a sound that is instantly familiar, but comfortably easy on the ear. Of course, this could be a fine thing if the easygoing drivetime soundtrack is your bag, bringing the sounds of Route 66 to the M8 (or your nearest motorway). Though unmistakably influenced by Americana, The Gin Club is actually an Old Blighty berthed creation. Perhaps all that Brighton sun inspired a southern drawl? Barrell cites bands The Animals, The Stones and The Who amongst his influences. Also visibly steeped in Muddy Waters, Barrell's sound is redolent of such sixties folk and rock influences. Dare I say, it's even a bit Beatles-esque in places, and there are a couple of Hendrix-like licks and riffs thrown in for good measure. Grandiose comparisons aside, The Gin Club reveals a clear talent: both the lyrics and the music itself show great skill in composition and delivery. [Yasmin Ali]