If this is the notoriously difficult third album, the first two must have been a breeze. Sharp Practise play classic English rock, with more than a nod towards folk and blues. The emphasis on Banging The Rocks is on songs, hook laden and heartfelt. One song in particular sticks out, Girls Don't Look which bemoans the way that female sexuality has started aping that of the blokes, more concerned with numbers rather
than relationship.
Neil King, Fatea Magazine
Headed up by a remarkable front man, Sharp Practise mix catchy unforgettable melody with thought provoking lyrics.
LSRfm.com
Beautifully played, sang and produced it's the ideal travelling companion.
Andy Vaughan, Vaughanmedia
Ten years and still going strong, Sharp Practise have conjured another melodic and simple album that’d easily sit alongside most MOR rock albums of the last decade. It’s constantly chipper, catchy, uplifting, conscientious (songs cover the environment, growing up, and even European history) with light touches, wit and summery sounds of a tight and smiling band.
Owen Williams, redhotvelvet.co.uk
I received the Sharp Practise album and I love it.
Phil Matthews, Rhondda Radio
Sharp Practise is a band that could sparkle at the Little River Band end of the harmony led rock market. Banging The Rocks certainly has its moments with some clever word plays and gentle catchy choruses that would stand repeated scrutiny on the radio.
Pete Feenstra, Get Ready to Rock
Nigel Clothier has fronted Sharp Practise for eleven years now, and it shows. The new album is rock with a real heart to it. Sound of Rock is a low-key celebratory track with a witty lyric and some great guitar playing by Simon Foley. Screw the Earth is a bitter look at the environmental issues facing us all. The tune is upbeat and tight to boot. Monsoon Rain is an upbeat, happy tune with some great guitar lines. Clothier’s vocal is energized also. It’s a terrific album all told.
Anna Maria Stjärnell, Collected Sounds
Overall this is a great album of mixed country and lo-fi rock styles that Sharp Practise excel at. They're not going to blow you away with a wall of guitars and screaming vocals, rather they'll lull you into a sense of pleasure and get your toe tapping along with Nigel Clothier's gentle soothing voice.
Justin, Entertainment Focus
The lyrics are honest and straight and the instruments are beautifully played to create a sound that is distinguished and relaxing.
Amy Lynch, New Reviews
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