IT is a work of contrasts that makes Black Foxxes’ second album such a good listen.

The release called ‘Reiði’ – the Icelandic word for rage – features the raw emotion of frontman Mark Holley’s cathartic lyrics and a passionate performance from the band as a whole blended with polished studio work and atmospheric production by collaborator Adrian Bushby.

With growling guitars, big hooks and emotive lyrics, Black Foxxes turn those dynamics into more than the sum of their parts.

The trio are most comparable to The Xcerts or Manchester Orchestra in terms of that sort of alternative rock sound where they wear their hearts on their sleeves.

This was particularly the case on the band’s first album, I’m Not Well, which mined into Holley’s anxiety disorder and struggle with Crohn’s disease.

Whereas the theme of Reiði is accepting the hands you have been dealt and not letting it hold you back.

Highlights include the infectiously catchy Manic In Me, the fuzz guitars of JOY and Oh, It Had To Be You, a big number with orchestral elements that builds to a crescendo and shows off Holley’s great vocal range.

The band’s reputation is fast growing and you can imagine these songs echoing from vast stages. It will be interesting to see what comes next.

  • Reiði by Black Foxxes is released on March 16