[pullquote]if this is only their first single, the album will be something![/pullquote]The Milk are a four piece band from Essex displaying the capabilities to be around for a while, these boys are without doubt a group to look out for.

Just back from a month long tour including the Isle of Wight festival, a lot of talk has been going on around this band, from Zane Lowe and the NME to Lyric Lounge Review, they are well and truly on the music radar.

Everytime we Fight, released on June 25 is the first single off their debut album Tales from the Thames Delta, completed a month after they signed their record deal.  It portrays a sound that is current with the flair of their own style of soulful, hip-hop melodies on top of a dance beat; it’s an interesting track and one that could not fail to get people moving.

Reminiscent of Massive Attack’s Unfinished Symphony in the intro – that simple ‘tinny’ timpani and pushing rhythm, it’s a song with movement from start to finish. There’s no let up creating a feeling of anxiousness and persistent drive; perfectly suited to the lyrics.

Recorded during last year’s riots, you can hear the song as a positive reaction to that chaos and a personal reflection about life’s choices – in 2010 they quit their jobs went on the dole “we really had to go for it” said lead singer Rick –  it’s moving without being overly emotional.

The lead vocal is strong , controlled and distinctive.  Masculine with a rawness in his voice, Rick’s tone is something to listen to, he doesn’t push his voice unnecessarily but it sounds like he’s got far more to give and live, I imagine, it’d be even more commanding and remarkable.

The harmonies are minimal but set the song in the chorus, adding a subtle backing and richness but still allowing the lead to be the dominant. The bridge brings with it the idea of hand-clapping, chanting audience participation; ideal for a live gig or a club night.

The Milk is definitely a band to keep an eye on.  Live reviews have been extremely positive and if this is only their first single, the album will be something!

You can catch The Milk touring again from 7 July at various UK venues and at the following festivals: Lounge on the Farm, T in the Park, Stockton Weekender and V Festival.

Fran Bonner – June 2012