Artist: The Lodger
Title: “Watching/Not So Fast”
By Conor Duffy

I went home for Christmas and what did I find waiting for me there but two promo singles, the first being this double A-Side from The Lodger, released many moons ago at the end of November. Suppose I should really visit home more often.

Anyway, I finally got my hands on it, and happy I am about that too. Granted, “Watching” sounds pretty much like every song by every other hot new British band, but the music has a Franz Ferdinand quality that certainly won't hurt The Lodger's popularity. The song is also in possession of that other important element of a great song, the catchy chorus. Toes tap and heads bob, and the song doesn't outstay its welcome.

“Not So Fast” is a little slower, bringing in the guitars and big drums after a gentle opening verse. It's my favourite of the two tracks here, and shows an ability to construct more than simple one-two garage numbers.

There are little bits of indie pop, little bits of Britpop, and a lot of energy on show here. Sometimes a catchy song is all you need to be a big hit. If that's the case, then The Lodger could be quite big indeed. It's important, however, for them to show they aren't just like everybody else. If they can do that, they'll be well on their way.

Visit www.thelodger.net or www.doubledragonmusic.com for more information.