Charts and Graphs - Run It Neil

Charts and Graphs

Run It Neil
​self-released; 2021

3.9 out of 5

By Dan Weston

Charts and Graphs are a three piece band based in Newcastle Upon Tyne who recently released Run It Neil. Their music is a blend of New Wave and Post Punk and is composed of  Dan (guitar and vocals), Ross (bass) Hugh (drums). The band states “We are a New Wave/Post Punk band that are influenced by late 70's/early 80's bands like Talking Heads, Gang of Four and by a few more current bands like LCD Soundsystem and Snapped Ankles”.

The album starts with “World of Video” which immediately felt the influences they were referring to. I loved the percussion, especially the cowbell which I’m a sucker for. The bass line is funky but no slap bass here. There are other elements which start to trickle like guitar and the vocals are also on point. Great opener.

“Wiretap” is another killer song. The bass drives the song and there are some elements of surf which you hear in the guitar. They bring together more rhythm section heavy songs with “”New Mutants” and “Lifestyles”.

I heard some of that post-punk as well on songs like “Lipstick” which sounds like a mix between Interpol and LCD Soundsystem. “Taxidermy Tears” has a hint of 50’s pop on top of the grooves.

The highlight is arguably “Professional Life’ which is also the catchiest song out of the gates. They continue to blast out grooves with the atmospheric “Get the Message” as well as the more guitar heavy “Cocaine Nosejob”.

Simply put, this album is a blast. It’s one I recommend putting on Saturday Night to get people in a good mood and ready to dance. I would also say however it’s not just about the grooves on this album. There’s heartfelt sentiment as well catchy hooks which bring it all together very nicely.

The songs were DIY recordings and sound great. I was getting more of an older analog tape recording vibe from most of the songs even if they were recorded digitally.

​This is a good album from beginning to end. The band has an aesthetic and consitentially nail it. Recommended.

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