On
Pure,
the Primitives churn out typical late-'80s pop mixed with a little Manchester influence. Focusing on catchy hooks, jangly guitars, and Tracy's sweet, melodic voice, the band creates solid pop songs, such as "Sick of It" and "Dizzy Heights." But it's the songs where the band experiments and moves away from its traditional sound that stand out. On "Shine," "All the Way Down," and "I Almost Touched You," guitarist P.J. Court takes over lead vocals, and the band explores a more psychedelic-influenced sound that wouldn't seem out of place on a
Stone Roses album. Unfortunately, there are only a few tracks like this on
Pure. The majority of the record is devoted to straight pop songs that, while enjoyable, begin to blend together in places. ~ Tracy Frey