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Talk In Code - Friends Close Enemies Closer

Reviewed by Teenagekicks | 29/09/2008 - 10:32PM

Since they burst onto the scene in 2007 Talk in Code have taken the indie-rock world by storm, supporting bands like Idlewild and recently headlining Sugarhill Festival. They have been described as ‘anthemic’, and, are currently serious contenders for ‘Last band standing 2008’. With voting closing in just over two weeks all eyes are on their EP ‘Friends close, enemies closer’.

So, what’s all the fuss about?

With themes like positivity in the face of adversity and gritty yet upbeat tunes you would be forgiven for dismissing Talk in Code as just another indie band. Listen a little harder and these lads will happily prove you wrong. There’s a well honed feel to their music that comes from love of their craft and time well spent rehearsing. Their songs are well written showcases of what each band member can do and it’s nice to hear each instrument used find its own place.

‘Not how it seems’, the second track from ‘Friends close, enemies closer’ delivered exactly what I expected. It was deep, it was dark, it had a story to tell, and the slow tempo added to the power of the drums too. It had that laid back indie feel with a catchy rock edge. ‘What comes as no surprise’ follows in its footsteps with its passionate, tried and tested, love theme and powerful music. The tune, slightly cheerful for the music, adds an easy listening style without altering the songs message. If anything they could have gotten away with a little more rock here.

Don’t mistake this review as hailing the bands perfection. They have, lets be honest here, not been together that long. ‘Swings and Roundabouts’ in my opinion was an odd choice for their first track as, although solid, it comes across as generic. There’s an unremarkable feel about it even though you know it isn’t bad. One way of describing it would be to say it was too ‘indie’ for its own good.

Perhaps this something to do with the amount of repetition used. It seemed to lack the drive of ‘Now it seems’ or the passion of ‘What comes as no surprise.’ It’s the little touches that make you appreciate Talk in Code. Their knowledge of when to use heavy and soft, the care put into the backing vocals, the journey the songs seem to take you on. All this weaves a rich, chart worthy tapestry and you can’t help let everything else slide

Saving the best for last ‘Gaze across the sea’ is possibly the strongest example of the bands skill. It delivers the best vocal performance from singer Chris Stevens and is full of wonderful guitar effects. There’s something about the cliffhanger note ending that can’t help but intrigue as well. Imagine Coldplay if they lightened up. Talk in Code delight in the twists and turns of a song taking you on a scenic emotional journey.

To sum up, Talk in Code are hot stuff. For a band fairly recently formed their music is enjoyable, impressive, and well cared for. Their use of instruments and time taken adding layers to their songs pays off. Talking in Code manage to take a tried and tested style and put their stamp on it. Having come so far in an impressive amount of time you can’t help wonder what next.

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