Distractions

With their second album Distractions, Sauna Youth showcase their ability to infuse a classic punk aesthetic with skilful artistry. While they may not be the first band to do this, there is plenty of depth to the songs, and Sauna Youth more than deserve to take their place among the current cerebral punk rock flag bearers.

Distractions is a triumph in every respect, from the frantic rush of the metaphorical moshpit that dresses up thrilling numbers like "Modern Living" or the blisteringly brilliant "The Bridge", right down to the quirky and ambiguous photography of the band on the sleeve, and through to the no holds barred production. You can almost smell the sweat from here.

Dreamlands places itself in a lineage which includes the Buzzcocks, Flipper, the Descendents, Wire, and Thee Oh Sees. This LP is limited to 300 copies on 180-gram clear vinyl with a booklet included.