‘Very Rarely Say Die’ by Sunset Sons (Album)

Sunset Sons: no slacker outfit. Pic: MC Ferrer

By making an album with such mainstream appeal, these Anglo-Aussie musicians clearly have their hearts set on reaching the top

With a UK headline tour already underway, the debut album from Anglo-Aussie outfit Sunset Sons has gathered some attention before its release. Having formed in the French town of Hossegor, whilst the members were pursuing their love of surfing, it’s perhaps surprising that their sound is so slick – this is no slacker outfit.

The reason for the often-cited Kings Of Leon comparison becomes immediately apparent with the lofty and dishevelled rock of Know My Name. It’s a slightly deceptive start though and the band begin to settle into a much poppier groove on the following tracks. Tick Tock and She Wants sit in the pop/soul/rock pocket usually occupied by Maroon 5 and Remember has a distinct One Republic feel to it. These similarities continue on Gold and Somewhere Maybe.

The bluesy The Jam (Interlude) and the piano-led Lost Company return to the rock roots of the opening track, but are very much the exception. Though Very Rarely Say Die might lack in dirt and rawness, its polished confidence will find many welcoming ears and Sunset Sons have delivered a debut album of ambitious pop songs destined for a large audience.

Verdict: Glossy pop rock

Duncan Haskell

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