"The simplest way is the best way" is an old saying that shows that to create music in a high quality level is not something that deserves the most technical band in the world or the longest songs one cam compose. RAMONES was a fine proof that the simplest way can build excellent music as well. And going into a simple way is the trio SPITFISH, with their album "Penny Dreadful". They're a deep and sometimes darkened Rock 'n' Roll band that comes near Gothic Rock from the 80's and some Pop Rock influences as well, but with something that comes from Grunge Rock/Alternative Rock from the 90's. Of course some weighty moments can be heard at times, but they prefer to work on melodies that are easy to be understood and charming choruses. It wouldn't be a sin to see their work as an accessible way to what JOY DIVISION and THE MISSION did in Pop orientated moments, and "Penny Dreadful" is a good album, indeed.

The sound quality of the album was conceived to have a vintage touch, to keep the music sounding organic and alive, but never dirty to the point that it couldn't be understood. And the fans from Gothic Rock genres will love it, because all sounds truly loud and tasty, but with some aggressive distorted parts as well. Taking out the intro "Into the Void", there are six good songs that everyone with no radical ears will enjoy a lot. "Grim Susperia" is a mix between Gothic Rock aesthetics with some influences from 90s' Alternative Rock moments, showing good melodies and vocals; "Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black)" will remind something from earlier Post Punk due its melancholic parts, but soon Pop influences appear; and "Big Black" shows a charming appeal due the easy melodies that can be heard on it, along with the Horror atmosphere. These are their best shots.

It's not a band recommended for those who only like extreme Metal genres; but for all those with open mind, "Penny Dreadful" can show some surprises.