The Struts Get Their Anthem On

Breathe in the oxygen "Could Have Been Me", the how do you do first single from Derby, England's The Struts generates. There isn't any overly deep academically deep minutiae to wade through. You're not left needing to take a shower because you've absorbed something hideously unclean. Lead singer Luke Spiller, backed by compatriot Adam Slack, cuts to the meat of the matter without skipping a beat. His world is about cashing in on the opportunities while they're around. Why be a coulda, woulda, shoulda dude when you can give destiny a nudge in the direction that gives you the most pleasure. I can't help but side with his claim that the bad die last. Billy Joel as much as hammered that concept home decades ago in "Only The Good Die Young". The anthem fires on multiple cylinders because the harmonies are subdued enough so you appreciate the relative urgency with which Luke sings. He's got about as much use for other people's regrets as a bald man has for a comb. Turning to the other components, Gethin Davies drums in full possession of well-deserved confidence. The bounce shuns overaggressive posturing and, in a surprise twist, that makes "Could Have Been Me" supremely call to arms charming. Bass tradesman Jed Elliott allows Luke to stand on his comfortably wide shoulders for a lengthy flight into the stratosphere of what classic old school fist pump made new again should sound like. Much attention gets turned to how crucial it is not to waste energy on undeserving sources. Luke has his sights set on better days and wishes to maximize the gorgeous parts whenever possible. His showmanship draws comparisons to Freddie Mercury, which is by no means bad company to share glory with. The video clip substantiates that claim beyond reasonable doubt. Queen's influence casts a mighty inescapable shadow but, not that anyone minds in the slightest. To hear Luke sum things up there's nothing worse than exiting this life as an unsung hero. I've heard you wouldn't want the song still inside you when you go. "Could Have Been Me" sings out loud and proud. The set up isn't muddled machismo. You can walk hand in hand with Luke knowing contentment on any level is what you're both seeking. The Struts succeed in planting the first of what could be many overtures to greatness in our collective consciousness.