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Nine Black Alps – Love/Hate

Nine Black Alps were all about piercing rock with a bright tint of Nirvana. The second album, 'Love/Hate', from the Manchester quartet however marks a departure from their dark debut sound. Sam Forrest, lead singer, explains, "It was the album I wanted to make when I was younger (debut album, 'Everything is'), Nirvana, Pixies, Sonic Youth whereas this album is where I am now." The only trouble is it's not quite clear where he has got to now.

The opening track 'Bitter End' sets out the creaking foundations for the album. A bird chirps before the chords kick in. With an infectious chorus, 'Bitter End' would be at home on the 'Empire Records' soundtrack. The West Coast of America provides an undulating sun-kissed backdrop to 'Love/Hate'. The youthful heavier rock sound of Manchester has been replaced with an album recorded in L.A full of US radio friendly harmonies, soaring chords and the occasional acoustic guitar.

Dave Sardy (Oasis, Jet and Wolfmother) produced 'Love/Hate' and there are nuances of his previous creations here. 'Happiness and Satisfaction' has a lazy Oasis b-side feel to it.
But there are still calls to arms for the grunge lovers on 'Forget my name'; where Forrest reverts to type and recalls his Cobain influences. 'Heavier than water' builds to a swirling sound but you can't help feeling Dave Grohl should be on vocals.

This is where the album falls down. The grunge influence is still there but there is also a pastiche of West Coast alt rock to contend with. There is no defining sound, nothing new to revere. Nine Black Alps reproduce grunge and 90's Americana with clear affection. But hopefully 'Love/Hate' will prove to be the sun setting on Nine Black Alps honouring all their boyhood American idols.