Shaft: Down at Your Life
By Tony Parker
Shaft have been around a over a decade now with key songwriting force Bob Cardy the only constant in an oft-changing line-up. For this, just their second album, Cardy is joined by guitarist Ben Maitlin and brothers Sam and Stu Kett on bass and drums. Together they create a glorious rock and roll noise that is equal parts '60s Brit Pop, Sister Lovers era Big Star and Pavement-style indie rock. The emphasis is on tuneful alt pop with an edge and hooks that stick like glue, while the vocal arrangements and harmonies wouldn't be out of place on a Beatles record. It must be said too that in Ben 'Boxcar' Maitlin's country-influenced guitar playing and the Kett's rock solid rhythmic support, Cardy has found the perfect vehicle for his lyrically clever and well constructed songs. Piano and organ courtesy of original Shaft member Rich Mixture and the enigmatically named Angel add to the joyous abandon with which everything is performed. The sympathetic production of long time band supporter/soundman/unofficial manager Bob Frisbee just adds to the consistency and flavour of this fine album.
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