By Josh Potter

Released Friday March 20th - Aeroplane Music

Local rockers The Jury And The Saints are back with the release of theirself-titled sophomore album.

It's been five years since the punk rockers released their debut album‘Daydreams' and the question in mind for most fans' has been why the hold up? Well, long story short the lads have been busy. They did release the ‘Revival' EP in 2011 to help whet appetites (which saw the band score a #1 NZ single with the title track) and in 2012 they signed a major deal with German label SPV Records, while in 2013 they toured Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Following that they finally had time to hit the studio, regain their collective thoughts and produce album #2.

The Jury And The Saints is a massive step up from their debut release. Produced by Alex Lysjakow, the boys have shown that they have developed into a quality punk rock band. Kicking things off with the anthemicStart Moving (complete with Ohh Wo-aahs), it's a great start to the album. Closely followed by stompingFever and the upbeat and angry sounding Focus.  You can tell that a lot of time has been spent on the vocals, particularly the harmonies.

Freedom Fighter for sure is a stand out track for me. With it's upbeat catchy heavy riff and vocals full of angst... a joy to listen to. Other favourites from the recording include Bust The Radio, Brand New (with a lovely little synth line) and the contagious Last Mistake.

In good old-fashioned punk rock style, the songs are all short, sharp and in your face. The longest track on the recording is the album closer Make Our Mark (3.45), with the whole album clocking in at a tad under 40 minutes.

If you like good rock punk music, this is for you. Here's hoping it won't take another five years for album number three to surface.

4/5