This latest album sees the band refining their pop-rock identity while quietly expanding its musical scope. Still rooted in the bright, radio-ready charm that first defined them, the record leans into a sunlit, high-energy atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and freshly polished.

Recorded across California, Dublin, and the UK, the production carries a sense of scale and clarity, with Roy Stride’s primary mixing work complemented by Matt Bishop’s sleek, contemporary touch. There is a noticeable lift in musical depth, too, thanks to Connor McDonald’s expressive, Clapton-inspired guitar work, which adds texture and nuance across the album’s more layered moments.

The opening title track, “These Are The Good Days,” sets the tone immediately with a distorted guitar riff that echoes its central hook before the vocals arrive. The real throwback comes in the delivery, with the spoken-style lines leading into the chorus recalling the phrasing of “This Ain’t a Love Song,” giving it a familiar but refreshed feel. The track’s Californian pop-rock energy is elevated further by the band’s first use of gospel-style backing vocals, adding warmth and lift. “Get What You Give” stands out as an instant crowd-pleaser, sitting comfortably alongside their strongest material, while “Stars Never Fade” delivers a timeless ballad that showcases their softer side. Elsewhere, “Don’t You Go Solo” leans into a 1960s-inspired palette with cinematic strings and Beach Boys-style sensibilities, and “Still Feel The Love” brings a welcome focus on musicianship, with a rare mid-song guitar solo, something uncommon these days. The album closes with “Alright In The End,” an expansive, orchestral finale, not too dissimilar to what was featured by Oasis on “Whatever” in the mid-90s.

These Are The Good Days sees the band building on their strengths, merging infectious melodies with greater musical depth to produce a warm, nostalgic yet ambitious collection of songs.

As vocalist and songwriter Roy Stride says, “What this album is about, what I feel the band is about, what my life is about… It’s all the same: bringing people together through live music and having a good time and singing along. And that's why live music is so important. That's what the title song is all about. About being in the present moment but also coming together.”

Beyond its immediate hooks and upbeat energy, the album reveals layers that reward repeated listening. The subtle interplay between piano, strings, and guitar creates a rich sonic tapestry, while the new gospel-style harmonies and intricate arrangements show a band unafraid to experiment within its signature sound. Lyrically, the record balances optimism with introspection, capturing moments of joy and reflection without feeling heavy-handed. With this release, the band proves they can honour their past while stepping confidently into new musical territory, offering both longtime fans and new listeners a record that feels thoughtfully crafted, sunlit, and full of heart.

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.