Peco: The Middle Ages review – If you like bands that peaked in the 1990s, you’ll love this

It’s often said that contemporary music lacks originality. It isn’t a crime for musicians to be influenced by the artists who originally inspired them to pick up an instrument, disassemble chord structures, and pen lyrics expressing a disdain for convention. That said, one would hope for any aspiring musician to forge their own style along the way.

On Peco's debut album, The Middle Ages, the Kildare-based indie outfit, formerly known as Valentine Black, proffer more sonic traces of popular English bands that peaked in the 1990s instead of honing a distinct individual sound.

Hiding behind the familiar tones of Manic Street Preachers, James, and Suede, a Brett Anderson inflection veils the vocals throughout the ten tracks – notably on Queen of Chaos.

The Middle Ages holds little relevance for today's music fan. Sonically, a startling resemblance to The Beautiful South's iconic riff on Perfect Ten is integral to Harpoon's hook, a memorable moment from the record.

Hopefully, when the time comes for Peco’s sophomore release, we’ll hear nuance and confidence to explore new terrain and not revisit the paths conquered by others.