To tackle the difficult second album, The Maccabees have recruited Markus Dravs of Coldplay and Arcade Fire fame to produce. His influence on the first single from the soon to be released ‘Wall of Arms’ is obvious; the relatively straightforward jangling indie sound of The Maccabees has been cast into a much more expansive soundscape. As a result, 'Love You Better' encompasses the gaping atmosphere of the likes of latter day stadium sized Kings of Leon numbers, but with a more traumatic new romantics/eighties feel. The jerky guitar riffs, which were once their staple sound, and Orlando Weeks’ haunting church style vocals make the transition. But they are fused with multiple overdubs into a track that grows with every listen.

 

‘Love You Better’ is evidence of an evolving band, and it whets the appetite for their new album due out in May.

8/10

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