Album: AO
Artist: Article One
Label: Inpop
Sounds like: Paul Colman

What is likeable about Article One is they are not trying to create some seismic movement— rather, they play simple, driving pop with simple lyrics, like a more sanguine Paul Colman. But songs like “Say it again” and “No time at all,” resting on reliable bass lines and minimal guitar licks, with seemingly inevitably catchy choruses, are textbook summery pop numbers. The only slightly unusual element is the inclusion of a violin, which, while not really country, makes it sound pastoral like John Mellencamp, The Corrs or Caedmon’s Call. In their sensible shirts and “sweaters,” they hardly look like attention-getting rock stars—but don’t let that stop you checking out the quietly confident music.  

Nicks rating: 3/5