NewDad - Altar

After last year’s ‘Madra’ left much to be desired, with this swift follow-up, NewDad pull through with a stronger, more memorable record, but one which still suffers from a lack of consistency.

‘Altar’ finds the Galway trio throwing ideas at the wall - and when they stick, it’s with super glue: ‘Roobosh’ is one particular standout, the track pouring with more aggression than the band have shown thus far, backed by a snappy chorus. The decidedly indie ‘Pretty’, too, breezes through with lush chorus harmonies working in unison with tangy guitar work to leave a pleasantly whimsical impression. It’s a lyrically consistent record: themes of homesickness and uncertainty of belonging are explored throughout, reaching a suitable climax in closer ‘Something’s Broken’, which creates an intense emotional release that’s been building throughout. Yet for all this, there’s also the disappointing ‘Sinking Kind Of Feeling’ and opener ‘Other Side’, the latter’s slow build at odds with the overall tone of the record. Still, it’s a great stride forwards with some tracks that’ll likely go down as some of the band’s best.