Album Review: Northern Captives - Dizzy
Reviewed by Rob Barker
Lincoln’s own Northern Captives are here to present their debut album “Dizzy”, released May 2nd 2024. Produced and mixed (to a very high standard, I must say) by singer/guitarist Sam Cook and mastered by Kris Crummett, Dizzy is a powerful, emotional ride combining post-hardcore, indie, emo and alt-rock.
Kicking in with A Miracle, a short yet effective opener to the album, vibes of Crisis-era Alexisonfire hit strong from the get-go. Killed the Creative follows, again showcasing the more melodic aspects of the post-hardcore genre. Vocally, KTC shows of Cook’s skills in range and creativity, reminding of bands such as Million Dead and Finch, complimented by a nice guitar part and tone.
Anxiety Dreams is an anthemic piece, shows off some lovely layering, a catchy strumming pattern that promises to return when the track drops out to the first verse. Living In-Between, personally my favourite track of the album, shows off a strong, unashamed snare cutting through a pretty chill track, adding real dynamic and energy to the number, along with an earworm of a pre-chorus. There’s a video available for this one, do go check it out!
Things stay chill with Distraction of Cure, with an almost 80’s-esque stadium-indie sound – reverby and nice! After this, the band seek opportunity to further showcase both their musicianship and writing skills with Cats Eyes by introducing some out-of-the-norm timings, making you stap awake and pay attention all over again. Guilty Room gives off a more mature City and Colour feel, along with tracks Nostalgia and Joy. The album ends with the title track, and I’m a bit annoyed at myself for going back to this word again, but it’s anthemic. Big sound, and a fantastic final track to see the album off.
Dizzy is one of those albums that both manages to combine musical nostalgia with new and innovative ideas. Whilst it might remind of certain bands, genres etc, it carves its own sound and doesn’t just sit simply as another album to be lost in the mix. Bass and drums by Steve Haddock and Jack Gregory compliment the sound without being boring (far from it!), and considering the somewhat DIY ethic of the recording being mostly completed by the band, Dizzy is a real achievement.
Dizzy is out now in all the usual places. If you fancy something a bit more chill, but still with some real gusto, genuineness and strength, go and have a listen now!
