Cynic Guru - Catastrophe

Here's something interesting - An exciting new US/Icelandic rock group that sound like Brit-Pop's heydeys. Cynic Guru's new single Catastrophe is pure Charlatans and Stone Roses; good old-fashioned lad-rock at its best.

Bands like Kasabian became superstars with their fusion of rock swagger and electronic influences, and Cynic Guru look to do the same here.

Catastrophe is a sprawling, immense tracks, a thing of so many chapters and levels; a forty-story tower block of roiling energy and pent up passion.

The chorus of 'I just called to say that I love you' is pure Oasis. Sure, this is a bunch of guys singing about love, but it's no James Blunt wishy-washyness. There's no undue cheese or cringe-factor moments, just good, honest emotion.

And like the many textures of the track, the band's career holds many aspects to it too - with a Number One hit in Iceland and orchestra experience forming part of their resume. Perhaps the real irony is that despite the band hailing from the USA and Iceland, they sound so completely and utterly British. It's almost bewitching.

Either way, Catastrophe is an absolute stormer of a song, packing choruses a mile high and suitably cinematic string sections which help round off an already considerably epic track.

Catastrophe's b-side Secret is very good too, betraying more of the band's US heritage; showcasing rougher vocals and a hefty Rage Against The Machine-esque guitar riff. Excellent stuff.

Catastrophe is released on the 4th July.