SLEAFORD MODS 黑胶唱片和CD

Review: If you don't know what Nottingham duo Sleaford Mods are all about by now then where have you been? They lay down raw, ragged MIDI beats that are deceptively simply but impossibly catch, with pressing social commentary and Tory baiting lyrics over the top. This new album UK Grim - a play on UK Grime, no doubt - is even more dance floor focussed than any before it. The gritty reality of modern life and all its pitfalls are in sharp focus throughout making it another gem from this much loved duo that also somewhat redefines their sound in new ways.

Review: Considering it was only last year when Sleaford Mods dropped their prized UK Top 10 LP 'Eton Alive' it's almost jarring they should now unveil a Best Of, of sorts. It's hardly time to reflect when you're one of the most vital acts in contemporary British pop. But then the record stands up on its own merit, too, more than living up to the name by offering an insight into the ties - or rather tracks - that bind together the outfit's seven year career to date. Those familiar with the work of Jason Williamson and Andrew Fearn will not be surprised to learn the contents here are visceral, heartfelt, stubborn, angry, and stood with tongue firmly in cheek. Observations from an island still riddled with inequality and led by donkeys, set to the kind of catchy but raw guitar, sequencer and drum work that can't help but take you for a ride.

Review: Unabashed satirical wares straight outta Nottingham, Sleaford Mods somewhat charming embrace of British provincialism sees the semi-ironic nature of their music nestle itself in a space shared with Jamie T, Mike Skinner and Blackout Crew. Slightly wayward, political and patronising, their music can sometimes come off something like a scene out of Peep Show, though however tongue-in-cheek their commentary of the UK life can be, it's a gloriously proud album of cultural identity, and in among references to chip tune, bedroom produced beats, alternative Madchester-era sounds to rap and spoken word, it's a record embracing hoodies and trainers as much as it does anarchy and builder's tea. Oi!