Review

By Liam Hughes | 08/04/2026

Catfish & The Bottlemen’s debut album *The Balcony* is a punchy, no-nonsense indie rock record that delivers contagious energy and raw emotion. Released in 2014, it features tight guitar riffs, anthemic choruses, and the impassioned vocals of frontman Van McCann. Tracks like "Kathleen" and "Cocoon" showcase the band’s knack for crafting catchy, guitar-driven tunes with lyrical honesty. While the album doesn’t break much new ground stylistically, its youthful vigor and heartfelt songwriting make it a compelling listen for fans of straight-up modern rock. *The Balcony* is a solid introduction to the band’s unfiltered and energetic sound.

Info

**The Balcony** is the debut studio album by Welsh indie rock band Catfish and the Bottlemen. It was released in the UK on September 15, 2014, and in the US on January 6, 2015. The album reached number 10 on the UK Albums Chart and peaked at number 17 on the US Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart. The Balcony was released under the Communion Records label in the UK and Island Records in the US. It was recorded at Chapel Studios in Lincolnshire, England. The album was produced by Jim Abbiss, known for his work with Arctic Monkeys and Adele. Featuring energetic guitar riffs and catchy choruses, The Balcony helped establish Catfish and the Bottlemen as one of the rising acts in British rock.

Tracklisting

1. Homesick
2. Kathleen
3. Cocoon
4. Fallout
5. Pacifier
6. Hourglass
7. Business
8. 26
9. Rango
10. Sidewinder
11. Tyrants