THE FRONT ROW

Red Rum Club’s fourth album, Western Approaches, cements their position as one of the most exciting bands to emerge from Liverpool in the last decade. Released in February this year, it feels like the culmination of years of honing their craft, expanding their horizons, and finding a sound that’s uniquely theirs. This record doesn’t just showcase their mastery of anthemic, cinematic indie rock—it elevates it.

From the opening moments of the Morse code-laced title track to the closing notes of Jigsaw Shores, Western Approaches is a dazzling display of Red Rum Club’s knack for combining infectious melodies with heartfelt storytelling. The album stands as a testament to their growth, with standout tracks like Black Cat, Godless, and Daisy towering above their already impressive catalogue.

The album begins with Western Approaches, a track steeped in atmosphere and intrigue. Paying homage to the World War II naval command centre in their hometown, the track opens with cascading waves and a coded message in Morse—a nod to Liverpool’s maritime history. It sets a reflective tone before seamlessly transitioning into Afternoon, a bass-driven, trumpet-soaked anthem that brims with the energy of a late-night escapade in Austin, Texas.

The juxtaposition of these tracks encapsulates the album’s essence: deeply rooted in Liverpool’s identity while simultaneously reaching outward, exploring new landscapes and experiences.

Two of the album’s most striking songs, Black Cat and Godless, see Red Rum Club at their absolute best.

Black Cat is an explosion of sound, its relentless rhythm and surging trumpets creating a track that’s impossible not to move to. It’s the kind of song that feels destined for festival stages, where arms sway and feet stomp in unison. Live, it transforms into a communal experience, with Fran Doran’s evocative storytelling pulling everyone into its orbit.

On the other hand, Godless takes a darker, more cinematic route, drawing on the band’s love for Western-tinged drama. With its twangy guitar lines and galloping tempo, it’s a masterclass in building tension and release. The track radiates the kind of energy that Tarantino would be proud to include on a soundtrack, perfectly blending humour, grit, and undeniable charisma.

What makes Western Approaches such a compelling listen is its versatility. The band moves effortlessly between moods, from the playful exuberance of Daisy to the introspective tenderness of Last Minute.

Daisy is pure joy—a smile-inducing burst of optimism that feels like sunshine in song form. With its singalong-ready chorus and over-the-top glam rock guitar solo, it’s impossible to listen without grinning.

Meanwhile, Last Minute strips things back, delivering a poignant love song layered with nylon-string guitars and ambient sounds of waves lapping the shore. It’s a tender reminder of the album’s reflective undercurrent, showcasing the band’s range and ability to create moments of stillness amid the chaos.

The energy of Western Approaches is magnified in a live setting, as we witnessed at Red Rum Club’s biggest arena show to date at Liverpool’s Echo Arena. Tracks like Jigsaw Shores took on a life of their own, their dynamic twists and soaring crescendos filling the vast space with sound and emotion.

Jigsaw Shores in particular stands out as a masterpiece of storytelling and sonic exploration. It begins with a restrained, almost haunting melody before bursting into a euphoric climax. The layers of instrumentation—trumpets, guitars, and pounding percussion—all work in harmony to create a track that’s both intricate and anthemic.

While Western Approaches embraces its Liverpudlian roots, it’s clear that the band’s time abroad has left an indelible mark on their sound. Tracks like Afternoon and Houdini carry the warmth and spontaneity of their American adventures, blending nostalgic charm with modern swagger.

At the same time, the album never loses sight of where it came from. Fran Doran’s lyrics remain deeply personal and observational, painting vivid pictures of love, loss, and resilience. Whether he’s reflecting on home in Hole in My Home or exploring existential themes in Undertaker, his storytelling is both relatable and evocative.

Working with producer Rich Turvey (Blossoms, The Coral), Red Rum Club have created an album that feels cohesive yet adventurous. The production is polished but not overly slick, allowing the band’s natural charisma and energy to shine through.

While their previous albums laid the groundwork, Western Approaches feels like the record they were always meant to make. It’s ambitious without being pretentious, fun without being frivolous, and heartfelt without being overly sentimental.

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The Front Row Verdict

Red Rum Club’s Western Approaches isn’t just a collection of songs—it’s an experience. It captures the essence of a band in their prime, confident in their sound and eager to push boundaries. From the infectious hooks of Black Cat and Godless to the emotional resonance of Last Minute and Jigsaw Shores, this album has something for everyone.

As they continue to grow, both as musicians and storytellers, it’s clear that Red Rum Club are destined for even bigger stages and broader horizons. If Western Approaches is any indication, the future is bright for this Liverpool six-piece—and we can’t wait to see where they go next.

Stay tuned for more in our Albums of the Year 2024 series, only on The Front Row.