Deaf Havana's 'Old Souls' Album Review

Deaf Havana first formed in their hometown of Hunstanton in 2005, however, over the past couple of years they have well and truly burst on to the ever so popular pop-rock scene and have gained an extremely loyal fan base in the process. With it being just under two years since the release of their much-loved album 'Fools And Worthless Liars,' which featured hits such as 'I'm A Bore, Mostly' and 'Leeches', there was a lot of anticipation surrounding their new album. Now, the band have finally released their long awaited album 'Old Souls' and it has certainly lived up to my, and hopefully everybody elses, expectations.

At first listen, it is clear that Deaf Havana have done a lot of growing up since writing their last album, as both the sound and lyrics of this album are seemingly much more mature than usual. The album kicks off with 'Boston Square,' which I believe is the perfect angst-ridden song with a incredibly catchy chorus, to transition seamlessly between their old and new album. 

In general, this album is filled with many ready-made hits such as 'Lights' and 'Speeding Cars,' however there are two much more subdued tracks that really jump out at me, the first one being 'Night Drives.' This song starts off very simplistic with minimal instruments, yet this builds gradually throughout the song, with the final chorus becoming a lot more like the Deaf Havana's punchy songs that we all know and love. 'Saved' is the second slower song on the album and it really tugs on your heart strings. After carefully listening to the lyrics, it is apparent that this song is all about the struggle of growing up in a small town like Hunstanton and how unstable it can be. The final song that caught my attention, which is also coincidentally the last song on the album, is 'Caro Padre.' This number has a few subtle gospel-like qualities to it, including an atmospheric middle-eight complete with a choir and some heavy drumming, which makes this song a direction that Deaf Havana have never previously explored, as well as it being a great conclusive song for the album.

Here is the full track-listing for the album:

1. Boston Square
2. Lights
3. Everybody's Dancing And I Want To Die
4. Subterranean Bullshit Blues
5. Night Drives
6. 22
7. Speeding Cars
8. Saved
9. Mildred (Lost A Friend)
10. Tuesday People
11. Kings Road Ghosts
12. Caro Padre

Overall, Deaf Havana's sound has really matured and come into its own, and 'Old Souls' is a great showcase of this. I would really recommend listening to or purchasing this album as every song featured is, in my opinion, a sure fire hit. I would love to know your thoughts on the album and what your personal favourites are, so please do not hesitate to leave a comment below letting me know what you think. Thank you!