Twin Atlantic – The Great Divide

Scotland’s second favourite Weegie accent annunciating band are back with their third studio album, The Great Divide. And what a welcome return it has proved to be as these alt rockers seem to excel expectations at every turn.

Having already heard two absolutely epic singles from The Great Divide in the form of Heart and Soul and Brothers and Sisters, it’s clear that Twin Atlantic have upped the ante on this album. It’s now about the uplifting, all-encompassing choruses which sit as well in a stadium as they do on the radio.

However there are still some reflective type piano ballads, as is clearly expressed in album opener The Ones That I Love. The track itself also questions the current state of society and the band’s position within it, proclaiming that ‘the youth of today have lost their voice’. Here’s hoping Twin Atlantic might give them one.

Oceans is a particular favourite, and another sensitive, slow number. It’s an emotional acoustic ride that hears McTrusty question his band’s meteoric rise, and its effect on himself and personal relationships. This track is certain to touch anyone who has moved home for their career.

Contrasting the ballads and differing slightly from the stadium-like hits is I Am an Animal. It’s an angry, rowdy number which is sure to see crowds thrash into each other at live shows. The track sounds a bit like Biffy Clyro meets the more uptempo QOTSA efforts, as drums and guitars provide noise at 100mph while Sam McTrusty spits out each word like venom poured over the top. Pair this with the likes of Hold On and Fall Into the Party, and you have the makings of a show-stopping live set.

There’s definitely a slightly more American influence present on The Great Divide. It’s clear to see Twin Atlantic have matured a bit and are comfortable enough in their own sound to start producing more and more anthemic tunes, which is sure to become a trademark of their sound. The Great Divide is a tremendous effort from these Glasgow boys, and an album which is sure to sound just as great – if not more epic – live as it does on record.

www.twinatlantic.com