Sun-soaked indie rock

English indie rock band, The Kooks, return with Never/Know, a vibrant, guitar-driven record that blends upbeat melodies with reflective undertones. Formed in 2004 and influenced by the 1960s British Invasion and the post-punk revival, the group leans into their familiar sound while experimenting with new textures and tones.

Opening track “Never/Know” introduces the album with a simple, driving rhythm and layered vocal harmonies. A brief guitar solo punctuates the arrangement, while a bright organ helps establish the record’s recurring summer sound. “Sunny Baby” continues this tone with a cheerful love song. The track’s layered background vocals nod to a Beach Boys–style arrangement and another expressive guitar solo adds energy into the composition.

“All Over the World” blends rhythmic bass and dreamy keyboard textures with contrasting lyrics. Lines like “I just wanna touch, I just wanna taste / Cocaine, marzipan, oh how times have changed” stand out against the otherwise upbeat delivery. Still, the chorus “I want to show you off all over the world” recenters the track around the album’s central themes of love and joy. A soft, key driven outro keeps the mood ambient. “If They Could Only Know” returns to guitar forward indie rock. Lyrical details such as “I miss my granny’s cooking” introduce a note of nostalgia, while peppy guitar riffs maintain the album’s consistent energy.

With “China Town,” the band offers a pause in momentum. The stripped-down vocals, acoustic percussion and arpeggiated guitar sections result in a slower, more delicate track that contrasts the surrounding songs. “Compass Will Fracture” follows with a shift into harder rock territory, delivering forceful guitar riffs and solos. Less pop-influenced than the rest of the record, it adds a grittier element to the tracklist.

“Tough at the Top” reintroduces an upbeat tone with catchy guitar hooks and a steady build in energy. It maintains the overall summer rock aesthetic while keeping momentum high. “Arrow Through Me” opens with a groovy bass line and makes strong use of organ and guitar. Funk and soul influences are apparent here, with an organ motif anchoring the arrangement and adding depth.

The slower “Echo Chamber” explores a darker, emotional space. With minimal instrumentation, primarily featuring guitar and organ, the track carries a subdued tone. The lyric “I’m in the depths of despair” signals a departure from the album’s earlier optimism. “Let You Go” brings a tonal shift from heartbreak to emotional resolution. Punchy guitars and tight vocal harmonies create a clear sense of progression from the prior track’s mood.

Closing number “Talk About It” features prominent bass, guitars and organ. It circles back to the record’s warm, instrumental character, reinforcing the overall feel-good, sun-soaked sound.

Across its eleven tracks, Never/Know maintains a cohesive sound rooted in bright guitars, steady rhythms and classic indie rock influences. With transitions from lighthearted love songs to moments of introspection and acceptance, the album delivers a polished, easygoing listen fit for summer.