ALBUM REVIEW: Savages - Adore Life

They never stretched so far as imitation, yet it was practically impossible not to hear the quartet's jagged, intense post-punk and not recall the likes of Public Image Ltd, PJ Harvey and especially Siouxsie and the Banshees.

This follow-up too is hardly a hub of innovation, but what's key is that it's the sound of a group seeking to establish their own path.

Indeed, while Adore Life makes a point of retaining the serrated guitars squealing feedback which punctuated its predecessor, the draw of its 10 tracks is the clear advancement in their writing.

The Answer, for instance, is a relentless, breakneck opener, driven by a frantic, pummeling guitar assault that's exhilarating and exhausting in equal measure.

This acts as a precursor to other high octane numbers, with the likes of Sad Person and T.I.W.Y.G. packing a similarly visceral punch.

The extraordinary counterweight is Adore, a restrained slow-burner whose poise and minimal tension eventually succumb to a thunderous, almost Swans-like climax.

It's the high point of a return that's not only assured and progressive, but also raises hope that their best music still lies ahead.