So you thought it was 2005, did you? You poor misguided people. Karmatruffle have released "She’s Not All That" so it must be 1968 at the very latest. Karmatruffle rightly dub themselves as a "hippy indie rock band". The result is a collection of three tracks that would not sound out of place among the sex, drugs and rock and roll of Woodstock. Make Retro Singles Not War There are squelchy synths, psychedelic guitars and pure West Coast harmonies. Throw in some retro lyrics about peace, love and understanding and what you have is nothing short of groovy, baby. The A side track is a case in point. "She’s Not All That" sets the mood from the very first guitar chord. It’s about a girl who likes to impress, but is ultimately shallow. Like the tracks that follow, it is a perfect pop song with catchy riffs, a memorable and sing-a-long chorus. And what’s more, it doesn’t outstay it’s welcome. Good Karma B Sides, "Let it Go" and "A Better Way" explore the hippy philosophy a bit more. Not only are the guitars tuned into the sound of the Sixties, but so is the thinking behind the lyrics. "The people on TV [will] give you stuff for free/but man you always have to pay" lead singer Julian Pugsley explains on "A Better Way". Meanwhile "Let it Go" is all about…..well, letting go. Crispian Watch Out The last time a band so successfully managed to capture what is now a 37 year old zeitgeist was back in 1996. The band was called Kula Shaker. Unfortunately things ended badly for them following an ill-advised swastika incident. With any luck, and, let’s face it, a lot more wisdom, Karmatruffle should manage to avoid such a disastrous fate. Good Vibrations The songs on this single are small but oh, so perfectly formed. Production values are high, to match the enthusiasm and aspirations of a band who deserve as much good karma as they can get. Look out for them before the Sixties decides it wants them back. | 
