Album Review: The Cess Allan Band - Stay Inside

The Cess Allan Band is the work of singer/songwriter Nick Read from Watford, London and 'Stay Inside' is 3 songs full of stripped down, laid back indie pop. Opener 'Stanford' is just this, with handclaps and an acoustic guitar taking lead over Read's southern-toned vocals. It is a nice track that subtly slides you into the EP.

This is followed up with 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being', a smooth and steady paced track, where a slight jazz-undertone slips in, especially with trumpets stepping during the bridge. In addition to this, the track has strong vocals from Read.

'"Casablanca"' is a slow, ballad with just a simple beat and guitar being used, until a full band joins in with strong harmonies. Then after an odd sample being used, the EP comes full circle with just a laid back guitar rounding things off.

The Cess Allan Band is a sweet, nice piece of work which shows promise, as Read has an ability to write songs that are strong and captivating.

3/5

'Stay Inside' by The Cess Allan Band is available here.
For more information on The Cess Allan Band visit www.myspace.com/thecessallanband

Sean Reid