Water Machine – God Park
On their debut LP, Glasgow's Water Machine showcase a diverse range of styles and influence, moving them firmly into the "ones to watch" category
The extended Rock Family Tree for Glasgow grows another branch with the release of Water Machine’s debut LP, a propulsive, addictive set of tunes which showcases a diverse range of styles and influences. There’s the DIY noise of Huggy Bear, the energy of X-Ray Spex, and the lyrical fun of The Vaselines. This is not a relentless ride though – there are tender moments of reflection (notably Jimmy’s Waltz) which show a softer, more vulnerable side to the band.
It's a record which you feel could only have been made in Glasgow. Tiffany is pure Orange Juice, while Hot Real Estate muses on the merits of different sides of the city; Water Machine feel like one of those great Glasgow bands like V-Twin, 1990s, or Lung Leg, who are much more interested in people having fun than taking themselves too seriously.
If you were looking for fault, the only angle would be that perhaps some of the passion, chaos and humour of a Water Machine live show hasn't quite translated to the record. It's a minor grumble in a set of songs which move Water Machine firmly into the “ones to watch” category.
Listen to: Dog Park, Tiffany, Hando