If there’s one thing Kingswood does well, it’s good ol’ fashioned rock ‘n’ roll. Their debut album, Microscopic Wars, is no exception. The 13-track LP takes their signature brand of fuzzy rock and takes it to next level. There’s no middle ground; from start to finish you’re hit with thudding, high energy rock. Even the more mellow tracks like the ballad-like ‘Eye of the Storm’ builds from a piano-driven melody to a satisfying bass-heavy conclusion. While there is an obvious overlying Kingswood flair, here and there you can catch a glimpse of the band’s influences. (In one run-through I caught snatches of Queens of the Stone Age, Wolfmother and a haunting vocal track reminiscent of Ozzy Osbourne.)
Vocalist Fergus Linacre is at his peak here – every track is handled perfectly, regardless of energy and tone. He can blast out a rock anthem with the best of them, but can drop into a soulful croon just as easily. Guitarist Alex Laska provides a fantastic fuzz-heavy guitar track a la Josh Homme and co., dropping into the occasional blistering solo. Kingswood’s rhythm section – bassist Mango Hunter and drummer Justin Debrincat – are absolutely stellar, giving every track (even the aforementioned mellow tracks) a toe-tapping beat.
Microscopic Wars is one of those rare rock albums that truly shines from start to finish, with the band combining a wide range of styles and sounds into a set of songs that make for one hell of a debut album. I expected big things from these boys, and they certainly delivered.
Out now via Dew Process
By Alastair McGibbon
Recommended

Time to unwind, Victoria could be getting an epic 900-kilometre trail connecting the state's hot springs and bathing spots

Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast' Musical is coming to Australia in 2023

Australia’s International sensation Mulletfest is coming to Victoria in October

Falls Festival to celebrate the New Year at new Victorian home as council approves plans

10 of the most iconic Australian acts to hail from regional Victoria
