I first heard Lisbon during my middle school end of term music concert. Even back in the day of strict school uniforms, they were still the headliners (our Head of Music insisted). I've seen them progress as a band from playing the North Shields YMCA (free or £1 entry lads) to supporting Eliza and the Bear to having their own UK Tour. It's weird seeing your mum's friend's nephew become "THE So-and-So from Lisbon". Unfortunately, their sound hasn't really matured or changed since 2013, when they decided to rip off Foals' album 'Holy Fire' within an inch of its life. I've called Lisbon "lyrically limited" and "predictable" more times than I will ever admit. I lost all interest in the band as they'd become repetitive and a bit boring.However, their latest single 'Vice', is bloody good. As much as it pains me to say so - hats off to you lads.
The track opens with a quirky percussion sound, it is similar to glass bottles, resembling a makeshift version of the intro to 'Walk this way'. It's then elevated by beefy bass and an infectiously catchy guitar hook. Front man and vocalist Varty shows a new tone to his usually unpolished vocals, channeling a more soulful and higher pitched side to his voice. He's much more controlled, allowing the track to adopt a really suave funk-pop vibe. Throughout the verses snippets of synth and guitar riffs are subtly woven in, giving the song a contrapuntal texture that is really pleasing and interesting to listen to. The track has this really full and rich sound and it's clear that it's been well produced.
In brief: it's just a really solid pop song and without a doubt, Lisbon's best work so far.
To listen to the full track, click the link below -
https://soundcloud.com/wearelisbon/vice-2