Camera - Hurt (single/ My Kung Fu) By Steve Rudd Release Date: 22nd November 2004.

Think of all the anthemic rock bands that Wales has loudly and proudly produced over the years such as The Manics, The Stereophonics and The Alarm (to name just a few), and then think again, for here is a new quartet in the form of Camera that are hacking out a truly awesome rock sound. Following on from a much-revered session on BBC Radio Wales, and after having been championed by Steve Lamacq, these guys are on a roll, with this Hurt tune of theirs being just as exhilaratingly hook-laden as anything that fast-rising Brit-Rock bands such as Kaiser Chiefs and Razorlight have so far released.

B-side Caught Me Unaware is another must-hear opportunity to witness how perfectly frontman Matt's vocals suit the awesome music, courtesy of fellow band members Ben on bass, Steff on drums and Steve on lead guitar. Caught Me... boldly shields a rare type of emotional sensitivity at its core, and the short-but-sweet musical interlude that stands-out from the tune is beautifully transcendent in tone. Camera really are just as anthemic as the likes of The Alarm, and miraculously they are even more sublime. Having worked with Charlie Francis in the studio (who has worked with REM in the past), take this Camera to heart and keep it safe. And just you wait for their debut album (due to land sometime in the year 2005) that is sure to be an instant classic of storming, life-enhancing proportions. Their music really is a most exciting snapshot of modern times. 5/5 www.cameratheband.com

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