('FIERCE PANDA')
This band used to be called Gerl before changing their name to Girl, and then subsequently to This Girl. Confused? You may well be, but boy� you should also be hugely excited by this 4-piece band that's boldly busted out of Rotherham over the past couple of years.
Fronted by fantastic singer and visually energetic frontman Liam Creamer, This Girl have parted way with 'Lockjaw' and are preparing to sign their first major record deal. And what with this 4-track 'Demos For The Family' release, whoever signs them is in for a treat.
While they may have been lumped with the Emo-rock crowd, these guys rise above the ordinary with their soulful zest and coolly tuneful tracks. Rarely is Liam so vocally agitated that you can't understand what he's saying, and instead This Girl pull of being sensitive and reflective gallantly.
Since their inception on the eve of the Millennium they've supported many bands including Hell is For Heroes, Biffy Clyro and The Wildhearts. They've long served their time as 'the support act' on any bill and are now a star attraction in their own right.
Just one listen to songs herein such as 'Bling Bling Bling' and 'Cartwheels,' and your ears will be left in no further doubt as to why. Whether they're rocking out with a jubilant riff or being sensually mellow (especially when Liam hurtfully admits 'I don't really care about you' to a seeming loved one), This Girl present genuinely uplifting Emo-rock genius.
As far as the current wave of Emo-rock music goes, these guys are wearing the trousers. 4/5
(STEVE RUDD)
Release Date: September 29th 2003.
www.gerl.co.uk