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As a result of constant touring following the success of their debut album, Young For Eternity, The Subways’ vocalist Bill Lunn had surgery to cure nodules on his vocal chords. There was a possibility he would be unable to sing again, and the band’s future was in doubt.
The very title of 3 piece’s second album, ‘All Or Nothing’, is a reflection of their attitude towards their music. The album reflects the band’s frustrations and triumphs, with lyrics such as ‘Another day, another chance that it will be alright’, and ‘What’s a boy to do, when there’s nothing left to lose?’
From the heavy beats of ‘Girls and Boy’s, to the sing along melody on ‘Move To Newlyn, and the sweetness of ‘Strawberry Blonde’, ‘All Or Nothing’ is a solid album, showing The Subways’ versatility and commitment to making music worth listening to.
The acoustic guitar and tambourine on ‘Move To Newlyn’ let Lunn’s vocals shine through, with his English accent the icing on the cake of this narrative.
Lunn’s screaming vocals on ‘Turnaround’ are exhilarating, but I can hear the possible cause of his throat nodules. Charlotte’s vocals in the chorus give this track texture and a point of difference. ‘Shake Shake’ makes you want to dance and ‘Strawberry Blonde’ is a poignant track about loneliness and partnership: ‘You’re the brass keyhole I fit into.’ Lost Boy’s lyrics provide a beautiful end to the album, like a lullaby that stays with you.
Any album that makes you want to sing after the music stops is a success. ‘All Or Nothing’ not only does that, it makes you think, and that can only be a good thing.
Review by Alexandra Hartshorn |
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