Unique. Evolving. Amazing live show. With a single that peaked at #2 in the UK driving the recently released second full length album, "Wild Young Hearts", its a great time to check out a band that can re-invent themselves while keeping their intriguing unique identity. From London and started in 2003, Noisettes are led by Shingai Shoniwa who brings beautiful vocals, solid bass lines, and an awesome energy on stage. Dan Smith's sick guitar solos and catchy riffs with the drumming of Jamie Morrison complete the Noisettes.
The charts prove that the new release is more mainstream friendly than their debut album "What's The Time Mr. Wolf?" that was released in early 2007 and had two singles that only got a small taste of the UK charts. Extensive touring followed their debut album in Europe and in the U.S. with bands such as TV On The Radio and Bloc Party. I got to catch the Noisettes open for TVOTR in August 2007 in at the Mercy Lounge in Nashville and both bands rank high in my favorite live performances that I've ever seen.
"What's The Time Mr. Wolf" has more punk and rock influences with driving bass and sweet rocked out guitar solos, highlighted by songs like "Don't Give Up", "Sister Rosetta (Capture The Spirit)", and "Scratch Your Name". Its a great listen with plenty of parts to head bang to. The new "Wild Young Hearts" strays from that style by being more pop and just showing a different set of influences. The songs "Never Forget You" and "So Complicated" are reminiscent of early Motown hits, while "Beat Of My Heart" remind me of some classic 80s pop rock. Shoniwa has a sensual soultry voice and she's been compared to Billie Holiday, but she'll also belt out a fun and raspy shout at times.
Some great bands like the Noisettes show up on UK charts but not on any in the US, so keep an eye on the UK charts now and then. Here's a favorite from the first album, and links to stream both albums and an EP.
Wild Young Hearts | What's The Time Mr. Wolf? | 3 Moods - Check out "Signs"