7/10

Ever since breaking through with their much-loved debut LP 'Blood On The Door' in 2021, Californian outfit Andrew Browning And The 9 Pound Hammers have always been one to explore the more riveting aspects of the 70s-inspired aesthetic. Big hooks, brass sections, and catchy choruses have become a staple of their sound over the years as they look to revive this once loved genre and rebrand it for a modern ear. And after rekindling much of that praise and acclaim for their comeback outings 'Econoline' and 'Preachers Of Doom' in recent months, they are back once again with their new studio album 'Love Is A Beautiful Thing', a record that places those nostalgic influences front and centre throughout.

Leaning extremely heavily into that swaggering Americana groove that has become synonymous to their sound since they first emerged, 'Love Is A Beautiful Thing' sees them returning to the fold with some of their more enjoyable anthems to date. Building on the bold and infectious melodies that have littered their catalogue to date, their newest endeavours sees them push the boundaries of their aesthetic as far as they will go. Whether they are cracking out the killer guitar riffs or exploring more heartfelt textures, Andrew Browning And The 9 Pound Hammers make light work of this fresh and captivating new release.

While these last few years have certainly been a great time for self-discovery and innovation within their direction, 'Love Is A Beautiful Thing' shows there are still plenty of immersive avenues to take their distinctive style. Capturing this subtle blend of old and new, classic and contemporary, they return to the fold with a truly memorable collection here.