Sheffield band Crooked Ties aren’t hanging about. The indie/alternative foursome formed at the the start of 2023; played their first gig in March; headlined their own hometown show at Network 3; and only last month released their debut single Don’t Let Reason Intervene. Not the type of band to let the grass grow under their feet, second single Enough isn’t Enough comes out September 15th.
The band are Matthew Clarke (vocals and guitar), Jack Grasby (guitar), Kieran Smith (bass) and Reegan Pettinger (drums). Among their influences they cite New York rock gods The Strokes, and Steel City indie stalwarts Milburn.
The song is more Yorkshire than a Headingly ‘Roses’ cricket crowd, or a pudding filled with gravy. The echoed, conspiratorial, narrated vocals are reminiscent of Yard Act‘s James Smith. The pacey, twitchy guitars; minimalist, angsty bass and drums, and indeed the song’s structure have the feel of Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not period Arctic Monkeys. Singer Matthew Clarke explained the genesis of the song as ‘It started with the bassline and we started experimenting with effect pedals and structures’.
Delving into the lyrics, on the face of it the theme of Enough isn’t Enough is a universal one – regret at over indulgence. ‘Enough isn’t Enough, ’till it’s far too much’ warns Clarke, adding ‘Probably should, but why would you stop’ before reminding the listener of that oft thought, but seldom kept promise to ‘make the vow, You won’t do it again next week’.
Enough isn’t Enough was recorded at 2Fly studios in Sheffield with Alan Smyth, who has previously worked with such south Yorkshire luminaries as Reverend & the Makers, Arctic Monkeys, and the legendary Richard Hawley. Decent stablemates. Some pedigree in that bloodline. Crooked Ties may be novices, but I wouldn’t bet against them.
Words – Ian Dunphy
Image – Taken from band’s socials.
THE FRONT ROW 
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