A decade ago, in the middle of the Britpop explosion, the nation was awash with bands desperate to resemble Oasis. It must have been hard to imagine then that in time, their trademark sounds would be drawn upon by bands with freshness – as done by four

A decade ago, in the middle of the Britpop explosion, the nation was awash with bands desperate to resemble Oasis.

It must have been hard to imagine then that in time, their trademark sounds would be drawn upon by bands with freshness - as done by four-piece Screwd.

Listening to Screwd it's clear that the dramatic lead guitar of Noel Gallagher is an important inspiration. Guitar often weaves through entire tracks with as much presence as some of John Squire's most elaborate recordings.

However, although happy to recommend the demo as a whole, it is first track Intro that stands out most for me. The Noel-esqe guitar is in abundance, but Liam is nowhere to be heard -the feel of the track is relaxed and sounds much better for it.

The lyrics are bitter, and where many bands would have jumped at the chance to spit and growl the words out with strained vitriol - here is a confident, calmer delivery that imparts much more emotion.

Days and Nights, with its simple lyrics, gently paced melody and warm backing vocals is another showcase for great songwriting. It's perhaps deceptively simple and very addictive indeed.

Importantly their British rock moments often give way to some chilled-out Red Hot Chilli Peppers calm akin to Scar Tissue.

Although the Screwd have recently recorded new material the whole of I.S.D.O. is still available on their website. Catch them live at The Portland Arms in Cambridge on Monday, February 13. Listen at www.screwdup.co.uk

CHRIS BOLAND