iLiKETRAiNS have always been renowned for their sublime refusal to conform to a single genre and style within their music, particularly with their exceptional debut double single BEFORETHECURTAiNSCLOSE. Phenomenally, Leeds' masters of sinister, haunting prog-indie-interestingness have produced a sophomore single that transcends even that. Not only does A ROOK HOUSE FOR BOBBY merge styles beautifully, it also shifts unnervingly in mood and emotion throughout.Through the trademark delayed guitar at the start, the strings-laden breakdown sections and the enormous cavern of orchestral sound that closes iLiKETRAiNS' second single, the tune swings from melancholy, to defiance, to terror, and back round again for another full circle. It's a track that's constantly changing, but in a way so subtle and gradual that only on reflection do you realise this.
Oh, did I mention that it's one of the best and most ambitious singles released by an alternative band in years?
B-side THEBREECHiNGREPORT has a much more sinister feel to it, with its looming synth drone and unsettling all-male chorus, chanting "Reform! Reform!" It's not an instant classic, clearly, but it's a perfect way to round off a truly inspirational record.
