Once Upon A Time In The West

Britain's indie band Hard-Fi has released their second album, and "Once Upon a Time In The West" was recorded in their own studio in Staines, a suburb of London. Hard-Fi brings major studio sound from a more than skimpy budget to their mix of punk, indie rock and pop. Comparisons range from Franz Ferdinand to Arctic Monkeys, but while they're deemed indie, their sound would fit mainstream trends; additionally, they are signed to Necessary Records/Warner in the U.K. and Atlantic Records in the U.S.

No matter how you look at Hard-Fi, as an indie band or not, there's no denying that their sound is catchy and well written. "Suburban Knights," the leading track and first single, combines unique vocals, reminiscent of The Clash, with strong guitar work. "Can't Get Along" is intrinsically British in both beat and melody. The band breaks it down on "Help Me Please," bringing emotional honesty together with music simplicity. "Once Upon a Time In the West" is a solid sophomore effort from the rising Brit band.