All in by Crosbi: A review

Although possessing the right attitude, claiming an eventual ""take over"", 'All In' isn't backed up by quality of sound

Album Review by Suzanne Mitchell | 16 May 2006
Album title: All In
Artist: Crosbi
Label: Split

It's questionable whether this Wrexham quintet has what it takes to build a successful career based on their debut. Opener Coastline seems promising enough with its foot-tapping catchy rhythm. Alas, that is as good as it gets. Uncannily reminiscent of John Powers from Cast, frontman Andy Jones also sounds like New Radicals' Gregg Alexander going through that awkward pubescent voice-breaking stage; funny at first, irritating before long. Lyrically, what is evidenced here is that they're not quite as clever as they would like to think; dealing primarily with juvenile, small-town frustrations. Overuse of repetition appears to be compensation for having nothing of interest to say. Accompanying these banal words are basic drumbeats, uninspired guitar riffs and stolen U2 basslines (particularly on She Got Soul). Upon reaching the closing track On The Run, there's blood everywhere from attempts to burst your eardrums with a knitting needle - Jones' wailing finally taking its toll. Although possessing the right attitude, claiming an eventual "take over", 'All In' isn't backed up by quality of sound. [Suzanne Mitchell]

All In is released on April 24.