Eugene & The Lizards - Bugjuice / I Want Action (Domino)
Gary O'Sullivan | Wednesday, 24 March 2010
The title track, 'Bugjuice', sounds like something Quentin Tarantino would play on his treadmill, bounding along with a pacey drumbeat and semi-hollow electric guitars. Between verses there is a disjointed section that hearkens to The Horrors, but provides a welcome injection of energy to the song, to good effect.
Eugene seems less concerned with hitting the falsetto notes as on earlier efforts, boasting a more languid style on this track with reminders of Morrissey in its best parts. The lyrics, "they're spilling Frappuccinos in the retroverse," are a particular highlight.
'I Want Action' couldn't be any more different, like a ray of sunshine breaking through the overcast mood of 'Bugjuice'. This track sounds like more of a collaborative effort, with Eugene's voice playing up and down melodic scales and the other instruments eagerly joining the party, displaying a coherence that leaves little room for individual ego.
The strongest criticism one could have is that it comes across a little twee, undermining the depths of the lyrics and thoughtfulness of its arrangement with a whimsical tone.
In short, Bug Juice / Action is a sweet single well worth its digital price-tag and with songs that would go down a treat in a live venue. Better get those fresh laurels ready.
Rating: 4/5