Baddies - Do the Job

Do The Job is either an example of supreme bad luck or an exercise in supremely competent observation. Which is a politer way of saying either Baddies were unfortunate enough to watch helplessly as their sound was popularised to great success by their musical contemporaries, or this album showcases some remarkably capable imitation. At times it sounds exactly like Maximo Park, not to mention stints as The Automatic and moments of The Enemy. Ultimately these similarities are pretty disappointing when you consider that track three, the rambunctious Battleships, is by far the best number here and also the most original. Its vigorous and clever guitar line and quirky, memorable chorus vocals shows real song-writing ability. Baddies could perhaps do with a stronger sense of identity and fewer record industry flunkies whispering in their ear at every turn. Yes they are currently tipped to do well, but so is swine flu.