Fresh on the Manchester scene, The Backhanders have only been together for a little over six months. In that time however, they’ve already played The Academy 3 and supported Twisted Wheel at the Kraak Gallery. Not content with that, they’ve also had airplay on a number of local radio stations and been championed by John Robb as one of his ones to watch in 2014.

 

Two new tracks, recorded at Blueprint Studios show it’s not hard to see why.  Campfire and Down By The River see The Backhanders displaying a an appreciation of a mix of genre and influences, and offers a tantalising teaser of what a full album could offer.

 

Campfire is an intriguing concept. Taking inspiration from an old photo album belonging to Joe Strummer, the band received permission to use some of the random lyrics littered throughout and built on these to produce a unique tribute. The result is a romping stomping beast, filled with swirling guitars and intensely spat lyrics that brim with authentic Strummer soul.

 

The second track, Down By The River changes tack completely. The opening gentle arpeggiated melody, building into a Johnny Cash style freight train rhythm. Stephen Chadwick’s imploring vocal has shades of Caleb Folowill as it rises to its gritty, raw crescendo.

 

Manchester's rich musical history already looks in pretty safe hands with the likes of Findlay, The Gramotones and The Velocets all picking up the baton for the new generation. It’s early days for The Backhanders but on this evidence, there’s no reason that they shouldn’t join that list.

 

We've been lucky enough to have an exclusive listen to the two new tracks and they'll be widely available soon. In the meantime, check out one of The Backhanders earlier tunes, Memory Lane below.