Single reviewsThe Other Side Reviews

The Broken Creels – Friend or Foe (2023)

Described by legendary 80s pop singer Kim Wilde as “very powerful”, Scottish foursome The Broken Creels are turning heads with their music. Along with Wilde noting her favourable impression, the alternative rock group are gaining international acclaim with features on Amazing Radio, RGM, Indie Band Guru, Buzz Jack, Press and Journal, and various playlists. With only one track to date (the one we’re about to review), the band is not only receiving critical acclaim but also hitting the top spot of iTunes UK Rock charts with this debut song. Come with us as we dive headfirst into their intriguing music.

Combining the talents of these experienced artists (Colin Clyne being an award-winning singer-songwriter), The Broken Creels fuse their diverse backgrounds and influences into a unique musical listening experience. Released through Aberdeenshire’s FloorTom Productions, ‘Friend or Foe’ has a toe-tapping, heart-pumping energy pulsing through the melody. A bold arrangement of pounding drums, dynamic guitars and Clyne’s rich vocals, ‘Friend or Foe’ sweeps you up in a sonic swirl twirling you about with kaleidoscopic lights floating about you…and you love every second!

Leaning toward the alternative rock sounds of the 90s, there is a reminiscence of Creed, Three Days Grace and Nickelback. Yet, while this nostalgic flair exists, a contemporary edginess is heard in the melody making it a treat for audiences of all ages. Seriously, the generation gap closes with ‘Friend or Foe’ and we’re all singing along to The Broken Creels. Interestingly enough, while I feel a sense of harmony in this moving single, the theme is not so joyful or serene.

Poetic and poignant, ‘Friend or Foe’ touches on “the times of turbulence, fear and misinformation we live in and how, when surrounded by such division, the lines blur seamlessly between friend and foe.” Sincere, sensitive, introspective and filled with raw honesty, The Broken Creels delicately touch on human fragility, desperation and vulnerability with ‘Friend or Foe’.  


For more from The Broken Creels, check out their Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.