It seems that the collective that is the United Kingdom has fallen behind in creating inspired music. Where there are some acts that possess a solid sound (The Maccabees), a great many of the current acts garnering airplay there are pretty sad. Jonquil is an act that has operated under the radar; Point of Go is their latest on Dovecote records, and looks to do much to repair the U.K.’s perception on the world stage.
Point of Go begins with Swells, a solid introduction to the act. This beginning point provides brief glimpses into the band’s unique style, but leaves the door open for the band to take listeners on a number of journeys. It’s My Part bashes listeners over the course of four minutes with a catchiness that is unparalleled in current music; listeners will have the track’s melody tattooed in their minds. Whether the act is taking on sixties surf-pop (Beach Boys, Turtles) or a more varied approach (Stevie Winwood, Chicago), one can be assured that Jonquil’s music comes from the heart. Point of Go ends with a powerful 1-2 punch. History of Headaches provides listeners with the last full song on the album, and the track works in tandem with Psammead to give listeners closure. I do not know where Jonquil will go with titles to come, but I have little doubt in my mind that they will come out with a solid follow-up to Point of Go.
Make it a point to pick up a copy of Point of Go from your local music store, and see the band live whenever they touch down for a United States tour.
Top Tracks: Swells, Point of Go (Part 1)
Rating: 8.5/10
Jonquil – Point of Go (CD) / 2012 Dovecote / 11 Tracks / http://www.facebook.com/jonquilband / http://www.dovecoterecords.com