Hung Like Jack - She's Not Dead

I'm sitting in a car park, enjoying the late spring evening sunshine after dropping off my dad at a meeting. I was going to while away the next 90 minutes or so ‘til he comes back on Facebook and Twitter but I’ve just remembered about my recent email from John of Darlington based alternative rockers Hung Like Jack.  I know the name of the band and follow them on Twitter but haven't got round to checking out their music yet so now seems as good a time as ever!

First of all can I just say I have come across a lot of musicians who don't consider visual art to be particularly important when it comes to touting their wares to Joe Public. Sorry guys but you're wrong! Upon opening the email, the cover art of Hung Like Jack’s new single ‘She’s Not Dead’ immediately grabbed my attention. I'm a big fan of all things Día de Muertos so their cover, depicting a very pretty and very much alive Catrina complete with floral headdress staring imploringly (or is that actually slightly threateningly?) through a frame ticked all the boxes for me. Great photo and relevant imagery - win!

Now for the song.

I'm going to really have to revise my opinion of myself whereby I think I switch off when a song runs over 3 minutes. She's Not Dead runs for 4.13 and I’m more than happy with that. It kicks off with an 8 second drum intro that instantly has me tapping my fingers on the steering wheel, then the guitars burst in and the party begins! 

This is an energetic, more than foot-tapping  tune, great riffage and plenty of power. Definitely required to be played and enjoyed LOUD. Please note that I can pretty much guarantee you will embarrass yourself by singing along to the infectious tune when you’re on the bus or walking down the street (or sitting in the car waiting for your dad…..) so bear that in mind when you listen to this one!  Lead vocalist John has a great voice and totally belts this song out plus the band really know how to play - great timing and the overall sound of a top band. 

The atmosphere surrounding the song gives me visions of pirates with pistols and damsels – dead or not - in long frilly dresses cavorting in the creepy woods with skeletal trees beside the cemetery that gets mentioned in the chorus. That's probably due to the cover art but I have to go with the story my imagination gives me. Who knows what yours will say to you? Maybe a whole different story. I don't know!

The verdict? I like this. A lot. Let's face it I've just spent the last hour listening to it on repeat and I'm still enjoying it so go and listen immediately!!!

I’m pleased to say that these lads are supporting LoGOz at The Three Tuns at Gateshead on 5 May and I will definitely be there - with bells on!!  It's no secret that LoGOz are one of my  pet bands but coupled with Hung  Like Jack and tripled with All Out Attack who are returning to the scene after a short hiatus, this is is guaranteed to be a rather special night! 

See you there!