7/10

Since the release of their math-rock inspired debut album 'Whatever' back in 2013, Sheffield-based duo Nai Harvest have spent the majority of their time since on the road. Occasionally stopping off in a studio to deliver the 2014 EP 'Hold Open My Head', the pair's last two years have been an extreme growing process as this second album sees them adopt an entirely new sound this time around.

From the off, 'Hairball' sounds like a perfect hybrid of 1977 punk and 1994 Britpop that creates a familiar yet uncharted sound within their own influences. With thrashing guitars and catchy hooks throughout, this new full-length seems to showcase a band in the middle of their own sense of self-discovery, dabbling in whatever inspiration comes their way. While the record is extremely concise in its sound, this heightened feeling of exploration does make the record a more exciting initial listen and gives them a much greater need to be heard.

While the album does seem to lack in diversity and originality, it is the pair's songwriting ability that makes this record so fresh and interesting. The pace and flow of it is always on the up and the result is well conceived collection of indie rock ditties.