The Contrast - Mystery #1

This guitar-pop/rock band from Peterborough, England has assembled a collection of songs whose melodies will remain in your head for days -- plus the fantastic guitar work evokes Fripp, Verlaine and at times the rootsy sounds of Dire Straits and R.E.M. Singer/Songwriter/guitarist David Reid is a gifted songwriting machine and guitar virtuoso to boot. While the album is filled with jangle and melody, it also rocks full-on. Think Roxy Music and R.E.M. meets The Stones and Husker Du. "Perfect Disguise" is a catchy little pop tune with a wonderful hook. A perfect album opener. It kicks in and won`t let go until the ENOesque ending. "Although the group plays all the familiar power pop elements - jangly guitars, effusive melodies, a reverence for all things retro - The Contrast takes its musings a step further in moulding its sound. Opting for an approach that`s more than mere ear candy, the band also rely on words and texture to give its music extra depth, a well considered dynamic that brings a resiliency beyond immediate gratification. ....At times, the band sounds like a less severe Elvis Costello, with hints of the Police (listen especially to the atmospheric opening to "Publicity Stunts" for comparisons to "walking on the Moon") and the Jam. Mostly though, they establish their own signature style, with "Perfect Disguise", "Falldown", "Remember" and "You Never Listen" affirming an ability to lay down an insistent groove, while "Mad Professor" and the lovely "Friend for a Day" display the occasional emotional embrace. It`s that skill and tenacity that makes Mystery#1 so revealing." - Amplifier.

Listen - mp3