Visions In The Bowling Alley
Big Stir, 2026
9/10
Listen to Visions In The Bowling Alley
The UK legends The Jack Rubies have made an incredible comeback, and this 2nd album since their return continues their path as one of the greatest in the area of post-punk.
The lively spirit of “Greedy” opens with Ian Wright’s distinct voice and Steve Brockway’s playful bass lines making for an animated start, and “My Perception” follows with a mesmerizing quality, where Peter Maxted’s precise drums suit the reserved climate.
“Flying Machine” lands in the middle and enlists acoustic guitar and a dreamy backdrop via strong attention to mood, while “Asteroid” showcases the frisky rhythm section and SD Ineson’s well timed harmonica.
Close to the end, “Boat Rocker” carries a bit of a jangle amid the flowing melodies, and “Be Good Or Be Gone” exits with Lawrence Giltnane’s bright percussion and the pretty backing vocals adding much warmth to the textured finish.
The current line up of The Jack Rubies is the same as it was 4 decades ago, plus the addition of the violinist Emma Peters, and the timelessness of their ‘80s influences are still intact across an updated version where hooks, grooves and haunting moments are much appreciated.
Travels well with: 25 for ‘25: The Big Stir Records Hit Machine; Splitsville- Mobtown