7/10

Throughout their tenure, Hull-based post-punk outfit LIFE have been one of the most progressive names on the scene these last few years. Largely following the same driven path as contemporaries such as Fontaines DC and shame, their output to date has been a mixture of frenzied anger and vibrant atmosphere that looks to reflect their own frustrations at the state of the world today. But as they return to deliver their third studio album 'North East Coastal Town', it is clear that they have become a tad sentimental as they look to pay homage to the town that forged them in the first place.

While Hull probably isn't one of the most romanticised locations the UK has to offer, its vital place within the story of LIFE is unparalleled, and so the group felt it necessary to honour their roots on this new full-length. From the start, 'North East Coastal Town' plays very much like their work to date, but that added sense of personal flair creates something more enticing within the subtext. Their pride within themselves and their origins shine through this new collection, making their newest offering one of their most heightened and inventive releases to date.

Although their sound and direction has become a staple of modern British music these last few years, LIFE still manage to find a distinctive air in which to explore and deliver something bubbling with innovative ideals. 'North East Coastal Town' is a strong and stellar return from a band that seem to be enjoying themselves more and more.