There's nothing I appreciate more from a rock 'n' roll band than making music THEY like, and just kind of hope that other folks appreciate it; and that, in a nut shell, is what Welsh boys Dead Shed Jokers have done on this impressive debut, 'Peyote Smile'.
 
If there is a current trend for making dramatic, atmospheric records that are smattered with infectious grooves, layered with white hot riffs and furious solos inspired by the NWOBHM, then I am unaware of it: but I'm sure there is no such musical fad currently under way, which makes this record all the more important and all the more special: Let me explain....
 
Opening track 'Is This Your Life?' puts the cards firmly on the table with a punchy riff and lyrical social comment; the confident delivery of vocalist Hywel really is top drawer, with more than a hint of legendary Diamond Head front man Sean Harris to be savoured. 'Served' is another furious riff collision and highlights the juddering At The Drive-In style time changes that are present through Peyote Smile like steel bars through reinforced concrete; Likewise 'Interesting Point, But...' which also brings in a decidedly Josh Homme style groove.
 
'Jack the Lad' is magnificent and moody, slowing the pace without giving anything away weight wise to the rest of the assembled pack, and 'Magic Teatime' is simply a fantastic psychedelic mind twist that sees front man Hywel invoking the spirit of Jim Morrison in sublime fashion.
 
It's almost impossible for a band to sound completely original anymore, which is merely a direct result of rock 'n' roll being sixty odd years old; But, when a young band can soak up as many influences as these boys obviously have and process them in such a way that they can deliver a sound as individual as this, then that's simply a great thing.
 
'Peyote Smile' is a standout debut record that's bursting at the seams with complex arrangements that never get boring, and magnificent musicianship that never becomes anal; it's sort of progressive rock but by no means 'Prog', and it's topped off with a supremely confident, individual vocal performance. Highly recommended: and available to download for one measly five pound note - what more could you ask for?

www.deadshedjokers.bandcamp.com