The Black Watch – Amphetamines – Review

The Black Watch

Amphetamines (Zero Hour)
by Scott Hefflon

The Black Watch has lollipops on their cover – how can we not groove with them? Their songs contain a bit of noisy guitar, and some sweet violins and violas, without being over-orchestrated. Frontspeople John Andrew Fredrick and J’anna Jacoby play a list of instruments and share the vocal spotlight, giving the songs rich layers of variety. One interesting note: The Black Watch doesn’t do the obvious male/female duet the way many bands do. When J’anna sings lead, it’s her voice that forms the soft harmonies in the back. Similarly, when John steps to the front, it’s his full, subtle voice that overlaps and supports. Like acoustic New Order, the tunes on Amphetamines (Zero Hour) are catchy, mellow and have a mild, danceable feel.