Album Review: Jake Bugg - Saturday Night, Sunday Morning

Effervescent, loud and jagged pop rock is what drew listeners to the vibrant swagger of Jake Bugg nearly a decade ago. 

With breakout hit Two Fingers in 2012, it was clear the young Brit - who hails from Nottingham - had something that was a bit left of centre and instantly likeable. He also has bucketloads of talent, and perhaps his decision to drop out of music school is one that helped that sound free form around his worldly takes on the world. Ragged vocals and some dizzying, sweaty rock riffs were a staple for the solo artist, right when guitar-driven alt rock bands were the big thing. Four albums of this infectious chaos later, Bugg unveils a sound that’s still very Bugg but a bit more polished in Saturday Night, Sunday Morning.

Nothing at all has changed when it comes to that instantly recognisable voice; the sometimes wiry and brash, sometimes soft and earnest words still crash and caress as much as they ever did. Bugg’s vocal ability leaves an indelible imprint as he zig zags his way from slinky All I Need, to wistful Downtown to no-fuss rock in Lost. His tone is comforting and familiar, but always offers some nice surprises from start to end.

Add on some unexpected sharp turns with ‘90s garage rock (Lonely Hours), some sweet ‘60s inspiration (Maybe It’s Today) and a raucous hark back to Bugg’s 2013 standout album Shangri La with Kiss Like The Sun, this fifth album is really hard not to fall for.

The raw, lo-fi quality that went hand in hand with the OG Jake Bugg has completely left the building, but Saturday Night, Sunday Morning runs off the same irresistible energy in a more polished finish.

Find out more about Jake Bugg here.