Strange Education

CINEMATICS' debut album, "Strange Education," is like being served a lukewarm cuppa on a dreary Monday morning - underwhelming, but with a hint of potential greatness. The Scottish indie rock band brings a nostalgic 80s sound to the table, with shades of New Order and Echo & The Bunnymen blending together in a rather confused musical concoction. Songs like "Break" and "Keep Forgetting" serve as catchy earworms, but lack the depth and originality to truly stand out in today's oversaturated music scene. Lead singer Scott Rinning's vocals are reminiscent of a young Morrissey, tongue firmly planted in cheek as he sings about the trials and tribulations of adolescence. However, his delivery lacks the emotional punch needed to truly connect with the listener on a deeper level. Despite its shortcomings, "Strange Education" does have its moments of brilliance. Tracks like "Rise & Fall" and "A Strange Education" showcase the band's potential for crafting infectious melodies and clever lyrics. In the end, CINEMATICS' debut album is a mixed bag, with moments of promise overshadowed by a lack of direction and originality. While it may not revolutionize the indie rock scene, "Strange Education" is a decent enough listen for those craving a dose of nostalgia with a modern twist.