Do Nothing – Snake Sideways

As a Nottingham local, I can say that Do Nothing are one of the best bands to come out of the city. ‘Snake Sideways’ is their long-awaited debut album, and it does play to their strengths.

I thought Do Nothing were unique in their experimentation when I saw them twice in one day at Nottingham’s Dot To Dot Festival in 2021 – made even more memorable by the fact that I got kicked in the head by a crowd surfer during their set…

‘Snake Sideways’ brings with it a mature and polished version of their experimental sound which got them a name in the indie scene. It’s both instrumentally and lyrically aware and gives the impression that the band waited five years to release it because they care about their craft and wanted it to be carefully composed.

Opening with drum and guitar-led ‘Nerve’, which seemed to echo more mainstream indie-rock with its sound, I was initially surprised – but it wasn’t long till they jumped back into an experimental sound with stream of consciousness instrumentation in the title track and in ‘Hollywood Learn’. Changes in tempo and uneven but assertive drumbeats, particularly in the title track, make for an engaging and refreshing listen – even if the sound of electric guitar feedback did catch me by surprise and slightly hurt my ears. Although not as much of a surprise as ‘Happy Feet’ – which I somehow did not think would be an ode to the children’s film.

Drum and electric guitar led for the most part, the record boasts an angsty, ominous and haunting tone, which the stark and honest lyricism echoes. Frontman Chris Bailey delivers lyrics in an authentic manner, not being afraid to say, ‘I secretly believe that I’m never going to die,’ or, ‘go ahead and die, you don’t have to be afraid.’ The songs tackle topics of death, God, humanity and even the corporate work life. Exclaiming, ‘do you want us all to drown in a sea of paperwork?’ in ‘The Needle’ is one way to get the attention of your boss, I suppose. ‘Fine’ and ‘Sunshine State’ also reference gambling and America’s response to the AIDS crisis, reiterating the band’s willingness to touch on topics which others may prefer not to.

‘Snake Sideways’ is a culmination of all of Do Nothing’s talents, and a great debut album which is perfect for the live setting – where the band thrives.

8/10

Words: Amrit Virdi

—