A decade on from being formed by vocalist and guitarist Ben Reed, Skegss have carved out a reputation as a melodic luscious garage rock group. Alongside drummer Jonny Lani, Reed writes sunkissed, introspective songs and pairs them with slacker rock choruses. However, on their third album, ‘Pacific Highway Music’, his meditative songs are clouded in vulnerability (‘Spaceman’), and whimsical optimism straightforwardly delivered.
Skegss have never been ones to complicate things, at least musically. ‘Pacific Highway Music’ borders on the tried and tested garage rock, occasionally treading on the fine line of indie. ‘Tradewinds’ quickly sets the lyrical tone as Reed sings of one day of getting “out of his own way” against a fuzzy, rose-tinted musical backdrop. When paired up with ‘High Beaming’s carefree celebration of infectious positivity, it makes for a pleasing start.
As a storyteller, Reed prospers when optimistically ruminating. Whether that be on ‘I Think I Can Fly’ s youthful recollecting and jangly acoustics or the admittance of “It’s so hard to follow your dreams” on the Americana-soaked ‘Stuck In Cheyenne’. Likewise, ‘Brain On The Highway’ firmly sees Reed in an introspective mood. It threads together a thoughtful narrative that adds depth to Reed and Lani’s simple style. That’s not to say Skegss aren’t musically interesting. ‘Batten Down The Hatches’ contains a radiant chord progression, even if it is reminiscent of The Strokes. The same could be said for ‘Out Of My Head’ and its earworm drive. Whereas the penultimate track, ‘It Is’, hones in on the lyrical optimism through a soaring chorus of comfort.
If anything, they’re able to take you to coastal, sun-swept places through a mellow sound, with subtle diversions. Yet as ‘Kelly Heroes’ breezily drags itself across the finish line, you can’t help but feel that Skegss lack that impactful punch. Instead, they opt for a caring, self-reflecting tone that cruises along with ease, as ‘Pacific Highway Music‘ takes you on a serene, and at times psychological, journey.
‘Pacific Highway Music’ by Skegss is out now on Loma Vista Records.