Reviewed by Stuart Blackburn

This six-track pop-rock EP from Finland follows up Paddington’s 2000 album ‘Wake Up And Relax” (see CR 64). The sound is deliberately ‘70s retro resulting in occasional backing vocal aberrations and an opening track reminiscent of Boston. Unfortunately retro also means a little quirky. “Palm” (track 5) just stops as if there is a power cut and the change of tempo at the end of “For The Love Of God” sent me into a real retro time warp tail-spin. The analogue synth sounds also raise the odd smile but generally provide good atmosphere. Much of the guitar work is tasty with layered power riffs, understated lead breaks and one or two air-guitar moments. Paddington do have problems in the lyrics department though “Morning Song” (a happy rock singalong about God’s forgiveness) declares: “I just wanna live my life right now, and in the morning milk the cow.” A much appreciated repeat of this song in the original Finnish (presumably) is included as a hidden track.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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