Listening to Sons of Martha's new single, "Samurai Smile," feels a bit like finding a beautiful, slightly unnerving porcelain doll tucked away in a toolbox – all sharp edges and unexpected fragility. This North London outfit promised a harder sound, and they deliver; guitars chew and churn with a satisfying grit reminiscent of early '90s Manchester swagger, but filtered through a distinctly modern unease....

Because of the profound impact that the music has, it is clear that it was created with a significant amount of emotional attachment by the artist. This becomes more apparent with each passing second. Because Karen Denieffe (O'Neill)'s vocals are so genuine and unadulterated, Paul Hickey made the best decision possible when he recruited her to work on this song. The new song "Lay Down" creates...