EP: "Tides" by Therapy?

On the 15th April 2016 Therapy? release the 3rd single from their latest LP “Disquiet”, a special edition with “Tides” being the lead track. Inspired by time spent at Andy’s one-time residence Dun Laoghaire, the song is about all night ventures down to the pier and looking at the waves. Neil’s ferocious pounding of the skins is matched only by the clanging chords and heavy bass. They make no secret of; and wear their Husker Du influences firmly on their sleeves, but Tides is yet another fine song pulled from the hugely impressive “Disquiet” LP.

Two bonus tracks are included here. Firstly, the excellent “Smile or Die” opens with some wonderful “rat-a-tat” drumming from Neil (Cooper), before launching into a chiming guitar part. The vocal echoes early Mark E. Smith over the chugging beat in the background, fighting for space against those clanging chords. The echo on the vocal reminds me of the “Post/Punk” era but the chiming guitars are the star here. The chord changes in the middle 8 keep things interesting alongside the wholesome bass. The vocal ending reminds me of Lydon in his Pistols pomp (think “Submission”).

“Slippies” opens with an emotional vocal and some ‘New Wave’ guitars. Andy’s heartfelt vocals overlay a clicky guitar part which is prominent while the subtle bass in the background is bettered only by the strong drumming throughout. Another great bridge and some intricate chord changes, one imagines this would be a great encore song. It ends almost as it begins with Andy’s heartfelt vocals.

“Insecurity” is given a whole new overhaul by Industrial/Techno producer Pitchphase. A complete diversion from the previous 3 tracks, I have to say I’m reminded of Sigue Sigue Sputnik initially in the sampling. Andy’s vocals have been enhanced and I have to say it’s a great remix. With the resurgence of Therapy? and the Infernal Love Tour only a month or so away, this is a timely reminder why this band are still a force to be reckoned with.

Track Listing
Tides
Smile or Die
Slippies
Insecurity (Pitchphase remix)

The limited edition CD will be available at all dates on the band’s UK tour, and from the Amazing Record Co. website

Infernal Love + more 2016 UK Tour dates
Thurs 18th Feb – Thekla, Bristol
Fri 19th Feb – The Globe, Cardiff
Sat 20th Feb – The Engine Room, Southampton
Thurs 25th Feb – The Plug, Sheffield
Fri 26th Feb – Oran Mor, Glasgow
Sat 27th Feb – Northumbria Student Union, Newcastle
Wed 2nd March – The Little Civic, Wolverhampton
Thurs 3rd March – The Wardrobe, Leeds
Fri 4th March – O2 Academy 2, Manchester
Fri 11th March – Sugarmill, Stoke
Sat 12th March – Rescue Rooms, Nottingham

Tour support comes from The Membranes.