The Ultra Violets - ‘(She Don’t Smell Like) Rose | Single Review
October 19 | Written By Terry Bourne
(She don't smell like) Roses is the fourth single by Cornish indie pop/rock quintet The Ultra Violets. With Perran Nicholls on vocals and guitar, Marc Willoughby on lead guitar and vocals, Adam Knucky on bass, Stuart Morrall on keys and vocals, and Tyler Harris on drums, the band delivers a captivating and energetic single that fully showcases their unique indie pop/rock sound.
Formed in 2020, the band debuted their first single 'Romance' in April 2021. Their follow up, 'Watergate Bay', was released in October 2021, and received a rapturous response from a 6000 strong audience at The Eden Project, where the band played as support for McFly. The tongue in cheek single 'Sex' followed in June 2023, receiving positive reviews from a number of music publications.
To date, The Ultra Violets have supported indie bands The Pigeon Detectives and Space, and September 2023 saw the band perform on the BBC introducing stage at Little Orchard Festival.
(She don't smell like) Roses finds the band once again addressing the complexities of human relationships in their own unique way. Lead singer Perran has said of the single:
“Roses is about having an altercation with someone who thinks they know better, but in reality, they are no better - the lyrics are very back and forth highlighting how the persons in question need each other to survive no matter what.” This dynamic adds depth and complexity to the track, immersing the listener in the midst of an engaging argument.
The musical arrangement further enhances the song's impact. The propulsive drum beat, and vibrant guitars intensify the emotions conveyed in the lyrics. The retro-inspired sounds, reminiscent of the sixties and the Madchester era, create a nostalgic atmosphere. Perran's vocals, combined with harmonies and the upbeat tempo, favourably evokes similarities to The Lightning Seeds and Reverend & The Makers. That last one is not a surprise, as Dave Sanderson from the band mixed 'Romance' back in 2021, and his influence is felt here.
(She don't smell like) Roses clocks in at a brisk 3.09 minutes, highlighting the band's ability to deliver a compact and memorable track. The catchy chorus line leaves a lasting impression, something that's been a recurring trait in their previous singles.
The Ultra Violets continue to impress with their captivating sound and upbeat energy. With each release, and with every crowd-pleasing chorus line, they further establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the indie pop/rock scene.
(She don't smell like) Roses is available now to stream on all platforms, alongside the band’s previous releases.
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