Biffy Clyro: 'Singles 2001-2005'

Despite boasting genuinely bizarre cover art which makes the grizzled Scots rockers look like Johnny from Mike Leigh’s ‘Naked’ fronting the Magic Numbers in a sea of bubbles and nipples, ‘Singles 2001-2005’ is an impressive showcase of the earlier work of a band who finally made it big with 2007’s ‘Puzzle’.

Lean, often brutal, and melodic, this 12-track selection keeps things sharp and to the point, showcasing the trio’s Pixies-esque bluster.

‘27’ bursts out of the traps with swagger and sets the tone with singer Simon Neil’s often sweet vocal, punctuated by bursts of ear-splitting noise. The most tuneful cut on the album, and this writer’s personal favourite, is ‘Questions And Answers’, a rather gentle rocker with a memorable chorus. ‘Glitter And Trauma’ is another winner; bouncy, glammy and possessing of a screamo-inflected sting in the tail.

‘Singles 2001-2005’ is a good introduction to an increasingly popular band, which manages to be both concise and suitably in-depth. Definitely recommended, for beginners as well as hardcore fans, who will need this (bizarre cover art included) in their collections.

Released on 7th July 2008 by 14th Floor Records.

Written by Ashley Clark.