(INTEGRITY)
For the past couple of years, rock trio Reuben have been big business. Well, they have theoretically speaking, amassing a loyal fanbase of hardcore fans who'd probably run naked to the ends of the earth for them and their frankly awesome music. With their debut album imminent come 2004, this 'Stuck In My Throat' single will tide over their fans' hunger for quality Reuben material, this song - as always - maniacally incorporating every element of the rock music genre imaginable, with the emphasis on heavy, hearty guitar riffs and frontman Jamie Lenman's distinctive voice. Oh, and his incredible guitar playing that really has to be seen to be believed. Sulking 'Everyone's always so sorry,' his vocals and the music that surrounds them do remind of fellow Emo-rockers Hundred Reasons, though Reuben are far more progressive in their ways.
In fact they're true devils for presenting truly epic rock 'n' roll numbers, their 'Doll Fin' b-side here breathtaking in its scope and grungier in style, before ya treated to a live version of 'Scared of The Police.' Even before the first chord in this version is struck, it's obvious the band on stage is Reuben when the singer tells the audience to 'check it out' - as Jamie always does - before his ripping voice drives the catchy chorus, beneath Jon Pearce's pace-setting bass and Guy Davis' genius drumming theatrics. You can picture the scene of the crowd going mad, and you'll inevitably want to run screaming and shouting around your hometown with the exact seem excitation, with nothing more than a sandwich board declaring 'Reuben Rule!!!' protecting any modesty that you may have left.
Because Reuben really do rule and they are undeniably one of the most exciting rock bands this country has every right to be proud of.
(Steve Rudd)
www.wordsfromreuben.com
www.integrityrecords.co.uk