Niche Vinyl


VANT - DUMB BLOOD

By Tom Walch




VANT's pulsating rock music and politically charged lyrics make this a debut album to remember. As soon as the needle hits the first groove on the record, 'THE ANSWER' places us in the front car of a rollercoaster ride, eagerly awaiting what's in store. It's not disappointing. The captivating, pulsating build-up serves as an excellent opener as we descend into VANT's first stab at an album. Greeted with lyrics such as, 'we need another term, not another Afghanistan, 'THE ANSWER' certainly sets the tone for the rest of the record, as the politically vocal frontman, Mattie Vant rolls on. Echoing that of The Clash in their political nature, VANT acknowledge and address current affairs in a vindictive fashion, which come into full fruition during tracks, 'PUT DOWN YOUR GUN,' 'PEACE & LOVE' and 'I DON'T BELIEVE IN GOD.' The gritty, down-to-earth and quintessentially British sounding heaviness in which Mattie's vocals sit atop of, make for the mosh-pit-fanatic's dreams as they twist, build and drop in such exhilarating ways. With the average VANT track rarely surpassing the three-minute mark, 'ARE WE FREE?' makes a welcome change as all members of the band are able to stretch their legs and take full advantage of the seven-minute track, and take advantage they do. Transcending the impersonal 'music' currently occupying the UK Singles Chart, here, VANT have provided us with something to shout about, a voice to follow and a message to reiterate. With the dizzying heights such as 'LAMPOON' and 'DO YOU KNOW ME?' DUMB BLOOD serves as an excellent basis in which VANT can build on. Aligned with their excellent live show reviews and social media presence, VANT, love them or hate them, are here to stay.