Camden based indie rockers Albion have today released their new single ‘We Smoke Inside‘.

This is the final single in the build-up to the six-pieces debut album, ‘Testament’, coming 26th February.

The exciting band consists of Ben Traini (Vocals), Jake Wilson (Guitar and vocals), Luke “Bids” Box (Guitar and vocals), Sophie Bishop (Piano, Keyboard and Vocals), Hunter Jones (Bass) and Jack Collins (Drums).

This new single is designed to highlight memories compared to a reflection, and the point that something lost is something learned. It’s split into two clear sections, which emphasises the past and the future.

As the track unfolds with a delicate and measured guitar layered with a soothing piano melody, it feels as though it guides the listener through a forgotten path of memories, meandering delicately along a hazy street.

This first section highlights these moments, with lyrics such as “Winter is coming as we try to hide. I lost you in each faded, orange streetlight. All this now we smoke inside.”

This also debuts backing vocals from the bands pianist and keyboard player, Sophie Bishop. Having the accompanying female voice adds a warmer layer to the track, and one that allows the lead vocals to blossom.

As the song builds into its second half, a marching drumbeat kicks into play, the piano suddenly feels angrier and the vocals are turned up just enough to emphasise the point.

Not only does the music shift here, but the perception of the track does too. whilst still reflective, the lyrics highlight the transition to the future and tackling life after growing up.

As a phrase, ‘We smoke inside’ feels loaded, but almost in a throwaway demeanour. To me, it suggests a loss of innocence. One day you’re outside all day, beneath the open skies and now you’re indoors, contained by the four walls that surround you.

The imagery this portrays is one of familiarity. Smoking indoors indicates choosing comfort over openness, and also one of breaking rules. As kids you follow rules, as an adult you choose which rules to follow, subtly pointing towards the feeling of “This is how life is now”.

I like the use of “we” instead of “I” as the titular concept for the track, showcasing the sentiment of growing alongside others, developing habits and sharing compromises.

I introduced my mother to Albion just this past weekend and I think they’ve gained a new fan. I showed her the previous three singles (Magnifique, Are You Wendy James? and Tattoo), as well as an exclusive play of ‘We Smoke inside’ and a couple of live videos from my camera roll.

She helped shape my music taste, be it Oasis, The Beatles, Madness and so many more. However, some of the “Modern” artists I listen to don’t always appeal to her, but she was very interested in Albion. For me, this is high praise for this band, and shows that the timeless rock nostalgia sound they build upon very much appeals multi-generationally.

As previously mentioned, the debut album “Testament” is a matter of weeks away, and will be available to purchase either on vinyl or CD. This album feels like a glimpse into the inner workings of how the London six-piece write their music.

Recorded at the Albion Rooms in Margate (The home of The Libertines) expect nostalgic rock guitar, flowing and twinkling piano/keyboard melodies, heavy and driven drums, locked-in basslines and of course, the eloquent, reflective and poetic lyrics. Blurring genres in a polished-but-grubby style.

Described by themselves, as crisp-packet poetry, toilet circuit veterans and kitchen sink thinkers, Albion have a natural charm and wit other bands only dream of living up to.

Review by Brad Halcrow for THE SONGBIRD HQ