The Noisettes - What’s The Time Mr Wolf?

Right from the off, The Noisettes’ debut is a brash and noisy affair. They may be compared to the Yeah Yeah Yeahs often, but ‘What’s The Time Mr Wolf?’ is considerably more diverse than that and the band’s influences are much more in 70s punk rock. ‘Sister Rosetta (Capture The Spirit)’ throbs and thrills with infectious drums and handclaps, singer Shingai Shoniwa displaying her vocal versatility and rock ‘n roll spirit. ‘Bridge To Canada’ is edgy, and is the band at their most focused and original. The chorus is superb.

However, there is a trade-off here between inventive and individual tracks, and those which are too self-indulgent and overtly different seemingly just for the sake of it. ‘IWE’ may maintain the pace of the album, but it’s disorganised, and a mess of noise. ‘Cannot Even (Break Free)’ is almost jazz-like in its temperament, and a touch boring.

‘Nothing To Dread’ goes someway to redress the balance, however. It’s a cocky, driving track where the band shows they are not afraid to draw back and then let rip again. Album closer ‘Hierarchy’ is another winner and proves the band can slow the pace, and with some style too.

So, is The Noisettes’ considerable acclaim deserved? Well, yes and no. Like a bag of pick ‘n mix sweets that someone else has chosen, there are some treats, but others will leave a bad taste in your mouth. We’d still recommend a rummage though: it might be right up your alley.