Album Review

The Rudiments – Doctor Bone’s Fried Medicine

• 12th Jul 2011

The Rudiments debut album may be short at well under 30 minutes, but this self published release gives a fine introduction to the Glasgow band’s work.

As the name would suggest, their sound is, in the main, simple. But the Rudiments’ mix of indie and pop comes with a host of sixties style melodies and warm harmonies that give an infectious feel to their music.

For The Simpler Times is an excellent opener. The strong lead vocal sit over acoustic guitars for a fast paced track that develops into a rocker with some great guitar work and ends with the unmistakable sound of a Hammond organ.

Cardamom is more folky, the acoustic guitars again backing vocals that have great depth and a husky tone. And there are some nice lead guitar parts too. Again the song builds as the harmonies develop and a powerful bass line kicks in just before the close. A complex track that sounds great.

On Yer Own has a strong Latin rhythm, and some lovely vocal harmonies, while Start To Roll has a fine 50s rock n roll groove that leads with a wailing harmonica. And then the laid back folk feel of Whisky From A Bowl changes direction yet again, with its softer vocal style.

Tetley Tea (Sets You Free) has simple, slightly repetitive lyrics and a psychedelic feel that raise it to something substantial. And the vocal harmonies again stand out, along with the lead guitar work.

The Last Hero Of Switzerland closes the album in some style, its darker tone marking a ballad that again showcases excellent lead vocals backed with some lovely slide guitar.

Doctor Bone’s Fried Medicines is a solid release that shows the Rudiments can capture their fine live sound on record. The band is building a strong reputation around Glasgow and this release should help to spread the word of their undoubted talents beyond their home city.