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Reviews · 14 April 2024

West Thebarton – ‘Certificate’

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WEST THEBARTON – ‘CERTIFICATE’
Single
Domestic La La

It’s been a long time between full-length drinks for SA stalwarts West Thebarton, however it only makes their sophomore album Mongrel Australia taste sweeter.

Fourth in the running order, ‘Certificate’ is an obvious standout. The track carries forward a momentum reminiscent of The War on Drugs, amplified by frontman Ray Dalfsen’s raspy, repetitious and thoroughly passionate vocal delivery. The band utilises its seven-strong lineup to success; each listen unearths another tasteful guitar lick placed cleverly in the stereo field. Ethereal backing vocals appear during the climax, adding further depth to the track.

Immersive and nostalgic, ‘Certificate’ is a sound that begs to be heard in an arena.

Sounds like: A sunset train ride to your new life.

Words by Finn McCole

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