Lawson: 'Chapman Square' - Album review

Given the extreme overcrowding in the all-male groups market, it's no surprise that Lawson have been quick to position themselves as a proper band - one that play their own instruments and pen, or at least co-write, their own songs. Heck, they'll even take their furniture to the woods (if the album cover is anything to go by) just to be in less synthetic surroundings.

Pleas for credibility aside, the group have drawn on reliable talent as well as their own experience for Chapman Square; with lead vocalist and ex-Avenue member Andy Brown writing the lion's share of the record and John Shanks (Kelly Clarkson, Bon Jovi) on knob-twiddling duties. The result so far is three sturdy pop-rock singles 'When She Was Mine', 'Taking Over Me' and 'Standing in the Dark' - each more of a grower than the last.

It's a similar story for the rest of the LP, where the production remains slick, the lyrics thoughtful and the melodies sufficiently hummable throughout. 'Gone' is a crashing torch anthem packed with Kings of Leon-style chanting, emo-ballad Waterfall is so traditional it's almost vintage, and the clubby synths and sirens over a bouncy chorus on 'Learn To Love Again' will no doubt raise a brow from The Wanted.

Save closing tracks 'You Didn't Tell Me' and 'The Girl I Knew' there's enough variety to avoid it feeling saccharine and self-indulgent, despite its exhaustive approach to love and relationships. The result is a promising first showing that, while in many ways old fashioned, also feels reassuringly familiar. Just don't call them a boyband.

Tracks to download: 'Gone', 'Waterfall', 'Learn To Love Again'
If you like this, you'll like: The Wanted, The Script, Rooster

Watch the 'Standing in the Dark' video below: