The Lancashire Hotpots - `Criminal Record` Mini-lp Review

I`d been alerted of the Hotpots fine music after spotting their name amongst the bookings for the Wickerman Festival in 2008, and being a Lancastrian myself i quickly compiled their previous recordings to check over. Like all of the best comedians, they have a knack of creating a wonderful sense of fun from the most ordinary of situations and this comes across in parody tunes that leave you chuckling and improve your mood for the rest of the day.

On `Criminal Record` the band takes a look at 21st century crimes as shocking as opening track `Identity Fraud` and `Cinema Smugglers` which is a riotous piratey excursion. `Sniffling Next Doors Broadband` is another well observed slice of modern day life, and the album finishes with the hands in the air, lighters up, festival pleasing `Perks of the Job` which you can`t help but sing along to. The quality of the song-writing really shines through on this release, they have raised the bar once again and its the perfect antidote to the modern disease of cynicism.

Eight great tracks on this mini-album, short but sweet and definately no fillers, just great comedy to brighten your day!

1. Identity Fraud
2. Landlord, Lock The Door
3. Id Take Take The Cars Off 'Em
4. Hardcore Quornography
5. Sniffling Next Doors Broadband
6. Cinema Smugglers
7. Released Without Charge
8. Perks Of The Job

Grab a copy, check the back catalogue, catch them live and enjoy the feel-good glow from this wonderfully talented band.

Released on April 26th

5/5

Matt Hinde