One of the most anticipated albums of 2025, two years on from ‘Lime’, I am very happy to have ten, new tunes from Ming City Rockers still ringing in my ears. There’s a lot of love for the Immingham trio here at RPM headquarters. Welcome to ‘Clementine’…

You should already be acquainted with the opening two songs, ‘I’d Like To Assist You (But My Head’s Too Small) and ‘Oh My God’, which set the tone nicely. Like the bastard offspring of Pete Shelley, they have a way with a simple, effective tune and catchy melodies, rather than overindulgent solos.

‘Plastic Recycling Facility’ continues their fine line in addictive “la, la, la” choruses. I first saw them at Rebellion festival in 2015, they were great then, and have gone on to hone their sound. ‘Seven Ate Nine’ is like an acerbic nursery rhyme, and ‘Window’ zips by in just under two minutes, complete with wonky keyboards.

‘Pounds And Ounces’ is even shorter, but you’re not being short changed, cause you’ll be playing it again and again. Believe it or not, ‘Blood In My Socket’ is even shorter, advert length but equally memorable, while ‘I Wanna Find A Way So I Don’t Feel Like Me Ever Again’ is reminiscent of The Only Ones. You can’t begrudge short songs when the tunes are this good.

‘Bad Luck Machine’ ups the volume and vitriol to pleasing effect. It’s easy to forget that some groups work and study whilst writing, recording and playing live. Obviously, making a living from your art is virtually impossible nowadays, but nevertheless they deserve credit for making music that is as good as its influences. ‘10, 3 Of 4’ sees Morley take lead vocals and the sound expand, showing that the band aren’t stuck in a corner, sonically speaking. It’s actually quite beautiful.

I missed out on owning a copy of ‘Lime’ as it sold out. I won’t be making the same mistake this time, and neither should you. Get your preorder in, you deserve it, as do Ming City Rockers.

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Author: Martin Chamarette