Label: Self-released
Release Date: 25th June 2020
Rating: 7/10
"In comparison to their previous work, which has a much more distinctive grunge edge, ‘Cigarettes and Regrets’ is infused with classic indie to its core."
The Common View, formed in Leeds in 2018, are dropping their newest release, ‘Cigarettes and Regrets’, at midnight. In comparison to their previous work, which has a much more distinctive grunge edge, ‘Cigarettes and Regrets’ is infused with classic indie to its core. As a fellow northerner, their music feels familiar and nostalgic in the best way. The band describe their new single as “an anti-love song”. At first, it feels like a light, summer tune (which it is) but the lyrics tell a different story. As the song progresses, a boyfriend sings about how he has cheated with another woman. The line “You wake up in the morning all full of regret / The taste of her lips like your last cigarette,” oozes with bad hangovers and regret. The final line, ‘It’s all crumbling down and it’s been your fault’, is sung in a deceivingly tuneful way, but the lyrics are filled with guilt and confusion.
The vocals on ‘Cigarettes and Regrets’ add depth to the song, reminding me of the Wombats' earlier angst combined with a mid-90s The Bluetones vibe. The song's emotion builds and culminates in a guitar solo which is the highlight of the song: it would be incredible to hear live.
It is crazy to think that this song was recorded and released during lockdown by using the equipment they had at home. It is so polished and well done, all without losing its cheeky, upbeat nature. After realising that The Common View have played lots of gigs in Manchester, I am really surprised I haven’t seen them live yet. This will certainly change after COVID-19.
Words by Elle Woods-Marshall.
25th June 2020.
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