Quaint but lovely split 7
In an age where the Myspace craze has artists and labels alike scrambling to be part of it, it almost seems quaint that Xtra Mile is releasing records on 7" vinyl. Despite this, you have to admire their willingness to help smaller and unsigned bands. As part of a four vinyl set, this is the third offering mixing current signings with new unsigned acts.
It has to be said that there's quite a mix of stuff on these double-A side 7"s. The first A-side, from Northerners Dartz, is such an urgent arty-rock affair but it's got sweet indie charm that could draw comparisons to earlier Idlewild. Besides, it's worth getting just for the way singer Will sings 'fantastic apparatus.
For The Maybes, it's all about sixties' guitar pop sounds, and before they even start singing you just know they're going to sound Scouse. 'Stop, Look, and Listen' is not exactly what you'd call original, but with a dash of The Rolling Stones here and there it's not bad.
All in all, it's a bit of a mixed affair but, of the two bands, Dartz definitely shine out the most.