After storming onto the Radio 1 playlist at the end of last year with their single ‘Delete,’ DMA’s debut album Hills End has been heavily awaited by anyone with an interest in Britpop.

The Australian trio introduce a harmony of melodic guitar throughout the album, with soft drums created a sound that has been said to echo that of Oasis. This comparison does ring true in many moments, the opener ‘Timeless’ and later ‘Too Soon’ and ‘Lay Down’ taking inspiration from the unqualified sounds of ‘What’s The Story Morning Glory’.

Despite this likeness, which appears to be the bands main criticism with comments made from Noel Gallagher himself, the gem that is ‘Delete’ has a certain spark and originality that makes it the albums high point.  The song uses creative layered harmonies, with memorable acoustic and rhythm, an appealing rock song, which deserves its credit as the most popular from the band.

Although the album is not all acoustics and comparisons; the sounds of ‘Melbourne’ are upbeat and funky, the layering of guitar and vocals creating an atmosphere which would make a DMA’s dance right up until the songs crescendo. ‘Straight dimensions’ has similar qualities; the coordination between O’Dell’s vocals and melodic riffs creates a playful sound, with the songs denouement of faded vocals and focus on guitar ringing throughout the entire album.

It is clear the band has taken their inspiration from the early 80’s, Liverpool, and an all-out love of Britpop, and for that we should not fault them. The album is nostalgic, in a way that does not try too hard like many indie-bands that precede them. Moments in tracks such as the melancholic ‘Blown Away’ or ‘The Switch’ make the album seem classic, the performance of which live on their UK tour, which began in late February, would be one not to be missed.

Amelia Whyman