Something With Numbers -Perfect Distraction

Sat 21st Oct, 2006 in Music Reviews

Right from the very first chord, Something With Numbers make it very clear that you’re in their territory now… punk/rock territory.

Forming on the Central Coast of New South Wales in 2001, they released their debut EP (The Barnacles & Stripes) in September of 2002. Since then, they have supported Good Charlotte, Panic! At The Disco, Millencolin and The Ataris as well as releasing another EP and two full-length albums in between-the second of these being Perfect Distraction.

Perfect Distraction was recorded at Electric Avenue and Standing Wave studios in Sydney by Phillip McKellar (who also produced and mixed the album). Mastering was done at Sterling Sound (New York) by Steve Fallone.

Featuring some forty odd do-di-dos, the first track Spent gives newer fans a window into the band’s emo past. Though this does not last long as the very next track, Apple of the Eye (Lay Me Down), is typical of any pop/punk song. Despite delving into many musical genres, the album stays true to the band’s punk roots.

Perfect Distraction seems to be overflowing with hits. Bang, Bang, Bang, Goodbye Mickey Finn, Chase the Chaser, Apple of the Eye (Lay Me Down), Zombie, Double Dyed-in fact; almost every track has number one potential and I can definitely see Goodbye Mickey Finn being on a movie soundtrack in the not too distant future. But my personal favourite would have to be Bang, Bang, Bang. This song combines all the genres explored in the album into a three and a half minute pop song.

Despite having one of the worst haircuts in the Australian rock scene today, Jake Grigg has one of the best voices going around and this is on parade throughout Perfect Distraction.

The album art is something to marvel at in itself. It was designed by Debaser (who have also done work for Butterfingers, End of Fashion, Kisschasy, Paul Mac and Pete Murray) it mimics the style of the old caption scenes from silent movies. The cover sleeve folds out to reveal a full set of lyrics for every song and includes pictures of the Middle Ages on the reverse side.

Perfect Distraction is out now through Below Par Records and EMI Australia.Something With Numbers are currently on a national tour in support of the album.