LAFARO – EASY MEAT
Released 3rd October 2011 (Small Town America)

Words: Tom Willmott

What is it with Northern Irish bands at the moment? For some strange reason, they are responsible for some of the best albums conceived in the last twelve months. Just check out Gangs by And So I Watch You From Afar and Visiting Hours of A Travelling Circus by Mojo Fury – and joining them now is the scuzzy rock quartet that is Lafaro from the same shores.

“Easy Meat” is the band’s sophomore album, just over a year after their eponymous debut which showcased some very quirky riffs and interesting lyrical themes. Much of the same can be found on this latest effort but the guys have moved to another level, and judging by this performance, could easily be Northern Ireland’s answer to Reuben. This album contains eighteen tracks and there’s never a dull moment. Some are short excerpts of studio outtakes and if you’re looking for gut-stirring primeval sound, “Pat-a-cake” is for you. Personally I would recommend “Easy Meat” and “Meat Wagon. ” Sounding exactly like their titles, this is raw, beefy, organic rock – think Queens Of The Stone Age with the amps turned up to way beyond 11.“Settle Petal” and “Off The Chart” offer some light and shade to the otherwise pulsating hard rock sound and closing song “Maudlin” which is a more stripped back, pared down effort, provides a nice finishing touch.

You may not fall in love with every bit of this record, but if you’re looking for humour, crazy guitars, interesting lyrics or just something with a “play it loud” sticker on it, then you’ve come to the right place. It’s also worth witnessing these guys live. They have been known to provide some great banter and with an upcoming tour soon, now is the opportunity to see them.