Young Guns' debut album All Our Kings Are Dead has definitely got fans and critics alike sitting up and paying attention. The British quintet have made waves since the release of their EP Mirrors and after supporting some big name bands such as Bon Jovi and Lostprophets, as well as being added to the Soundwave Revolution line-up for 2011, it’s apparent that it's their time to shine.

"Sons of Apathy" opens the album and sets the tone nicely for what’s to come. The bands melodic rock style has the ability to appeal to a wide range of people, with solid drumming and anthem like choruses perfect for a stadium crowd. With the song being incredibly catchy, it's almost easy to miss the hidden references and emotional turmoil within the lyrics about lead singer Gustav Woods father, demonstrated through lyrics such as "My father was an oak/ the earth moved when he spoke/ my father conquered seas/ but was not there for me."

"Weight of the World" is easily one of the catchiest songs on the album, with Gustav Woods' vocals slightly more clearer than the previous songs, as well as putting a heavier emphasis on guitar solos which works well to give the song a bit more diversity. The song has been re-modelled into a more polished version compared to the one on 2009 EP Mirrors. Not necessarily a bad thing, but it does give it a more commercial vibe rather than portraying the raw sound.

"Winter Kiss" creates a bit more of an angsty sound which works in favour for the band to break up the anthem type sounding songs and giving them a bit of versatility. Instrumentally the music takes on a slightly eerier sounding vibe creating a certain mystery and suspense within it. Lyrics such as “I want to sleep, but I hear voices, I hear them calling out to me,” back up the vibe created throughout the song.

"Beneath The Waves", a seven minute long song, shows off the bands more alternative rock side, putting a bigger emphasis on the band instrumentally with the last 2-3 minutes being a pure instrumental of pounding drums and heavier guitar work.

All Our Kings Are Dead is an excellent first album from Young Guns. The one criticism that could be made is that it is a little too polished – therefore losing some of the raw emotion and rock credibility. Vocally and instrumentally the band are at the top of their game and while it’s not the most versatile of albums, all songs have seemed to be put there for a reason – there weren’t any songs I didn’t like or ones that appeared to be fillers.

Review Score: 8.5/10

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