Camens release debut album ‘Work/Life/Balance’

Hailing from the heart of Stoke-On-Trent, Camens is a band that’s been staking their claim as one of the most exciting new outfits in the indie rock scene of the UK, armed with infectious melodies and a storytelling approach to music. Their journey, fraught with late-night rehearsals and gritty determination, is built on their pure musical passion and creative resilience.

Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of influences, including Interpol, Vampire Weekend and Weezer, Camens infuse their music with a blend of classic rock n’ roll cut with indie pop stylings and tinged with a touch of northern spirit. Their live performances, from their early impromptu gigs in unconventional venues to their upcoming tour with breakout indie stars The K’s, have reflected their rise over the last few years.

Since their debut single “Boys Will Stray” in 2017, Camens has consistently delivered well-received tracks that showcase their songwriting talent and electrifying energy. Over the last year, they’ve been dropping a string of singles in the build up to their most ambitious release to date; their highly anticipated debut full-length record titled Work/Life/Balance. Produced by Andy Gannon, who’s previously worked with the likes of The Courteeners, Glass Caves and The Hara, Camens’ new record features twelve tracks that provide the perfect run through of their incredible modern indie rock sound.

The album kicks off with “Cynical,” a powerful indie anthem that channels the raw energy of the ’90s festival scene with punchy drums, intricate guitars and a stunning vocal performance, that serves up their stadium-worthy sound with uncompromising conviction. It’s an explosive start to the record that perfectly sets up the gripping ride the album delivers.

“Poltergeist” follows with airy vocal stretches backed by the soft plucks of clean guitar tones by the crash of drums injects an instant energy that flows with bouncy rhythm capped by catchy vocal lines. Built on a thumping groove, the shifting rhythms and expressive vocal leads ensure a rousing rock experience that’s utterly infectious and exciting throughout.

On “Lying Won’t Get You Anywhere” they thread their delicate songwriting through a dynamic arrangement shuffling drums and bright guitars and synth textures. Bending from the subtle elegance of the verses where smooth vocals roll of the laid back instrumentation to the lofty choruses of bold guitar rhythms and emphatic vocals, it’s a superb demonstration of the wide appeal their songwriting offers.

Other standout moments on the album include “Confetti & Kalashnikovs,” a vibrant indie rock jam driven by crunching guitars and infectious melodies. “Salt” reveals the tender side of their sound with graceful vocals floating above warm piano backing on a charming song that gradually builds with hazy atmospheric textures, resulting in a delightful departure from the relentless energy across the rest of the record.

The album finishes with the very first single from the release, “On The Walk From The Picturehouse” where lightly gritty guitar tones ride an uptempo drum beat, met with shimmering chords and enthralling vocals that top a driving indie rock outing brimming with catchy hooks and energising arrangement. It’s an epic finale to conclude their sensational debut record, a release that sees Camens deliver an impeccable work of modern indie rock music from start to finish.

Listen to Work/Life/Balance below