Catholic Action - “One Of Us”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 4

Pairs Well With…Arctic Monkeys, Palma Violets, The Strypes

Punk-infused UK rock band Catholic Action have released a couple of singles so from from their sophomore record Celebrated By Strangers, due this March, both of which progress the band’s sound in interesting directions. “People Don’t Protest Enough” incorporates a jangly, almost new wave melody, throwing back to early Clash times, while “One Of Us” cooly follows a raw vocal melody note by note with a guitar solo to an almost bluesy effect. It’s equally exciting and nostalgic, allowing the band’s socially-minded lyrics jump out right as a reflection of current UK unrest. (Kevin McStravick)

2017 Review: Take a jangly, punk-pop sound, add in a bunch of handclaps and you’ll start to approach the shimmy-shaking sound of Scottish newcomers Catholic Action.  Psychedelic rock, surf rock and and new wave pop finds their way onto the band’s four introductory singles - seek out “Rita Ora” and “L.U.V.” for the catchiest numbers.  Dual guitar action maximize the band’s space and add in a tad of synth when needed, this band is built for power.  Loose, garage rock plays as much a part as upbeat hooks in Catholic Action’s music, just a band being a band, but one that has unknowing songwriting instincts that could propel them forward quickly in 2017’s UK rock scene.