Cats In Space – ‘Suit Of Armour’

(Cherry Red Records)

There is no denying that Cats In Space have carved out a rather special place for themselves within the melodic rock underground. Their combination of flamboyant seventies-inspired Glam Rock, theatrical presentation, infectious melodies and larger-than-life arrangements has earned them a particularly loyal following, and it is easy to understand why. They have a distinctive identity, a clear affection for the golden age of British rock and an approach that certainly stands out in a genre that can sometimes become a little too predictable. However, despite recognising all of these qualities, I have to admit that Cats In Space have never quite managed to capture my attention in the way they have with so many other melodic rock fans. Unfortunately, Suit Of Armour doesn't really change that situation.

That's not to say there isn't plenty to enjoy here. Far from it. This is an album that knows exactly what it wants to be, and the band certainly don't appear interested in changing their musical direction to accommodate anybody. Instead, they deliver another generous helping of melodic rock with a decidedly retro flavour, drawing heavily on the sounds, production techniques and theatrical sensibilities of the Seventies. There is a colourful, almost nostalgic quality to the material, with plenty of layered arrangements, big melodic passages and a distinctly British Glam Rock personality running throughout.

The Seventies influence is particularly noticeable in the overall presentation. There is a certain flamboyance to the music, a willingness to embrace grand arrangements and an enthusiasm for the more extravagant side of rock music. Those familiar with the likes of Queen, Sweet and the more theatrical end of the Seventies rock spectrum will find plenty of familiar territory here. Cats In Space clearly understand the appeal of that era, and they have developed a sound that celebrates it without simply becoming a straightforward exercise in imitation.

Musically, the album is competently put together, with the musicianship demonstrating the experience and ability that you would expect from a band of this calibre. The arrangements are often quite elaborate, with plenty happening beneath the surface, while the production gives the material a suitably polished and full-bodied sound. There is an obvious appreciation for melody, and the band certainly understand the importance of creating memorable musical passages rather than simply relying on volume and attitude. Greg Hart and Sam Wood’s guitar work provides much of the rock foundation, while Andy Stewart’s keyboards help create that unmistakable vintage atmosphere.

Vocally, everything is delivered with the appropriate theatrical enthusiasm by Damien Edwards. There is a sense of performance throughout the album, with the vocal arrangements often adding another layer of character to the material. This isn't particularly stripped-back or understated music. Cats In Space clearly enjoy making a statement, and there is an almost musical theatre quality to certain aspects of their approach. For listeners who appreciate that kind of larger-than-life delivery, it will undoubtedly be part of the attraction.

However, and this is where my personal reservations begin to creep in, I find that the overall sound occasionally feels a little too theatrical for my own tastes. While I appreciate the musicianship and the obvious attention to detail, I sometimes struggle to connect with the material on an emotional level. There are moments when I find myself admiring what the band are doing rather than actually getting caught up in it. The melodies are there, the arrangements are impressive enough and the musicians clearly know their way around this particular musical landscape, but something about the overall package leaves me feeling slightly detached.

Perhaps that is simply a matter of personal preference. After all, one of the things I love most about melodic rock is the emotional connection that a great song can create. I want those enormous choruses, those uplifting melodies and those moments that make me reach for the volume control. I want to find myself returning to an album because something about it has genuinely got under my skin. With Suit Of Armour, that connection never quite happens for me. I can appreciate the quality without necessarily feeling compelled to revisit it.

That said, I certainly wouldn't suggest that this is a poor album. It is perfectly enjoyable in places, and there is enough variety within its twelve-song running time to keep things moving along. The band's enthusiasm is infectious, and their commitment to their chosen musical style is never in doubt. There is also something refreshing about a group that isn't afraid to embrace the more extravagant and colourful aspects of rock music rather than chasing contemporary trends.

Ultimately, I fully understand why Cats In Space continue to enjoy such affection within the melodic rock community. They offer something a little different, combining traditional melodic rock values with a wonderfully nostalgic seventies Glam Rock sensibility. For fans who enjoy elaborate arrangements, theatrical vocals, vintage influences and a healthy dose of musical flamboyance, Suit Of Armour should provide plenty of entertainment.

For me, though, this is an album that falls into the category of being perfectly okay without ever becoming particularly exciting. I can recognise the quality, appreciate the musicianship and understand the appeal, but I don't find myself reaching for the superlatives that others will undoubtedly be using. Sometimes an album simply doesn't connect, and there is nothing wrong with admitting that.

Melodic rock fans should definitely give Suit Of Armour a listen, particularly those with a soft spot for the flamboyant sounds of Seventies Glam Rock. There is plenty here to enjoy, even if, for me, Cats In Space remain a band I admire more than I actually love.

Suit Of Armour is another colourful and thoroughly seventies-inspired outing from Cats In Space, and I can completely understand why this band have built such a devoted following within the melodic rock community. The musicianship is solid; the arrangements are suitably flamboyant and there's plenty of nostalgic Glam Rock goodness to get stuck into. However, despite recognising the quality on offer, this one never quite grabs me. It's an enjoyable enough listen, but I'm left admiring the band's approach rather than falling in love with the music itself. That said, fans of melodic rock with a particular affection for the theatrical sounds of Seventies Glam should find plenty to celebrate. Not quite my cup of tea, but certainly worth investigating.

6/10

Essential Track – ‘Miracle’

Review by Woody