Asylums - Alien Human Emotions

Indie rockers Asylums are back with their second album "Alien Human Emotions". I have been into Asylums right back before their debut album "Killer Brain waves" came out, round about the time the fantastic single "Missing Persons" was released. Although that and "Joy in a small wage" were absolute anthems. "Killer Brain Waves" wasn't an album I found myself going back to that much. I liked it initially but I did feel like they were in one gear which was edgy punk/indie songs.   But from that album it was clear the talent was there and I was excited to hear what they would come up with next.

Well first up from this new album they released "When we wake up" which really is a total belter. Picking up from the best bits of the last album and really sending out a statement of intent. But that changed slightly in the second single "Milenials" which threw a bit of curveball as we see Asylums starting to try and mix things up a bit. This is a bit more of a laid back track and finds Asylums really getting into a groove.

And getting into a groove is really what Asylums have done with this album. It is a far more diverse album than "Killer Brain Waves" and this is a very good thing.   The songs feel like a band who are progressing and making better songs. The album kicks off with "Day release to the moon". A track which is such a good way to start an album.  "Bottle Bank" and "Alien Human emotions" are some more indie rock goodness. "Napalm Bubblegum" would not be out of place on their first record as its a more edgy, punky track. But it still fits in here and adds to the diversity. "Sexual Automation" takes you on a bit of ride. Starts off with some nice acoustic guitar with Luke's fine vocals. It then picks up and is a really nice track to listen to.  Album closer "Company you can keep" is an even slower track and fine way to end the album.

I've probably mentioned about half the tracks on this album but one thing I haven't mentioned is the weaknesses. And to be honest there is a reason for that. Beacuse there isn't any weaknesses on this album. This is a very well put together album which shows a band who have taken things to the next level.  It has a certain feel good factor about it and that is something the band should be feeling right now as they certainly have delivered the goods.