I-tunes Single of the Week Review: Lowline’s ‘Outside’

Manchester is making noise again, and iTunes knows it. Lowline’s centerpiece track, “Outside,” off their self-titled album takes the center stage for the iTunes free single of the week.

This is a big statement for Apple, since iTunes also offers a free “indie spotlight” download, which was given to Best Coast this week, a band that’s signed to the New York City based, Mexican Summer label. Lowline, however, released their debut album in true indie fashion, unsigned and on their own right.

Lowline hails from Manchester, England, and carry the torch of its historical rock influence. They’re the product of a street fight between Oasis and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club with the hazy slash guitar from U2’s The Edge when they cared more about music and less about saving Africa. The deep reverb of front man Robbie Rush’s vocals is reminiscent of Joy Division’s Ian Curtis after a few rounds of Prozac.
Rush and Andy Hewitt both tote a guitar and synthesizer to stay with the times. Mike Hosker pounds out single bass notes with Sam Clarke on drums to hold together a tight, easily digestible alternative rock rhythm section.

Two wavy guitar solos appear throughout, reinforced by the low-key pop from the synthesizer hidden behind everything. A violin effect is brought in after the first break and sustained through most of the second verse as a mature layer to fill out the track. The gloomy lyrics are intermittent with Rush’s howling vocals and finished with the same epileptic synth that introduced the song.

“Outside,” as well as the album, illustrates a gritty Manchester. Riddled with crime and unemployment from a down economy, “Say goodbye to the internet/ You happy now?” exaggerates the image of a torn city forced into an unwelcome quality of living.

Since Lowline’s 2008’s release of the single “Monitors,” public and fans have patiently waited for a full album. In the three years since two more singles have surfaced, followed by a performance on the world famous annual South by Southwest stage in Austin, Texas. Lowline has since developed a faithful following and peaked some record label interest.