Thanks to our cultural divining rod Matthew Walkerdine for turning us on to In Threes, the debut from Manchester-based three-piece Handle. Though new to us, Handle have a little history that gives some context to In Threes, with two thirds of the line up comprising of former members of D.U.D.S. The same atonal clang and drive is on show here, but where D.U.D.S were referencing Wire's art punk spirit, Handle are full-on no wave DIY abandon. Classic Upset the Rhythm in a lot of ways, though they also remind me of the mid-late noughties Thrill Jockey stable and Baltimore scene. Fans of that recent Mope Grooves record might find more to love here, also - is this a 'dance punk' (punk funk?) renaissance? Not sure if two swallows make a summer or not, but Handle have a tight grip on that mutant disco sound with just enough art school nous to make it odd, disorientating and, most importantly, fresh. Imagine this crew really turn it up live.
