Pessimism Strikes You Cold: Sandpit

Greater Expectations (single) - JacK 061-2
It's definitely a lot poppier than along the moors, but is it as good? In my opinion, the answer, somewhat sadly, is no. Their previous CD was a sensational release, and is one of my favourite songs released this year, so it's a bit hard to compare the two really!!

The lead track is a super catchy number, and the record company is saying that "There has always been strong media support for these guys, which will certainly continue with the release of this single, backed up with full national servicing with a big push at radio.". Obviously "the push" has started already, with the song gaining occasional airplay on Triple J (for instance, Richard Kingsmill played it tonight on the Oz Music Show (in the first hour which is when the show has most listeners I'd guess) and said how much he loved it!

It also has Brendan doing a lovely falsetto during the chorus.

Brunch in Chicago is the second track, and does, indeed sound like it comes directly out of Chicago - I personally think it is so good that it could be on June of 44's Four Great Points, which is my favourite record at the moment. It is my fave track on the single, and I believe that if I heard it I would think it was by an Illinois (state which houses Chicago) band. It's a great instrumental.

The last track, D.I./Eclipse (remix) is another instrumental, which is also similar to a Chicago type band - this time Tortoise. It has that very "dubby" sound, and I think it's really rather good. The original version will be on On Second Thought, so that should make for interesting listening for all Sandpit fans, and it will be interesting to compare the two versions.

I must admit that I don't like Greater Expectations as much as along the moors, but it is still a fan-bloomin'-tastic song, and it again captures the attention of the listener. I'd recommend it to anyone.