There’s something fabulously British and brilliant about Alex Rice singing about Chablis; a symbol of summer arriving, some may say…

Although that’s been a treat for the ears since the single was released in April, we’re now here to rejoice in the birth of their latest, ten-track album, ‘Boys These Days’*.

This fresh instalment marks the third studio drop on their CV since 2022’s ‘Gulp!’ and, if I’m being honest, I can’t believe it’s been that long since that came out! It feels like yesterday. Back then, though, I was seriously on the festival circuit, doing Truck and Deer Shed, as well as Live at Leeds: In the Park. So it’s fitting that the band are returning to Temple Newsam this year, in line with — and in celebration of — this new collection being out in the world.

Circling back to ‘Sensible’ and its anything-but lyrics, Sports Team are playing firmly to strengths. They’re back, doing what they do best, snuggly ensconced in their witty wheelhouse. And I’m so here for it. The weirdly wonderful, Wild-West-tinged ‘Bang Bang Bang’ was one of the other original singles from the campaign. It wields a dramatic, gun-slinging, jovial nature that’s very much their MO. But I have to say, the pacy, drums-first ‘Condensation’ was an even catchier pre-album offering. 

But what we’re only just hearing now is the happy-go-lucky playfulness of namesake ‘Boys These Days’. Upbeat, fun and peppered with keys and harmonica tinkles, it’s bound to be a hit on the big stages. So you’d better put on your dancing shoes — it’s not up for negotiation.

Slower yet no less tongue-in-cheek, ‘Moving Together’ then follows. And did you detect that, too? A bit like a dystopian take on the Coronation Street theme tune rings it in, no? I’m not a superfan or anything (genuinely, the lady doth not protest); it’s just a bit iconic, so I’m left wondering if it’s my ears tricking me or they’ve genuinely dabbled there… To be confirmed.

Continuing, there’s something a smidge ‘80s about the piano-led ‘Head to Space’. Dialling up the fun factor once more, it has an orbital theme amid a country-esque sound. Intriguing. But would we expect less from Sports Team? Absolutely not. They’ve got captivating showmanship down to a fine art, whether you’re watching or just listening to them. ‘Bonnie’ doesn’t scrimp on instruments or charisma either; its loud-and-proud exterior is brash and brassy, with vocal harmonies, pointed guitars and slick drumming pinning it all together. And with lyrics about MasterCards, leather jackets and cars, it’s another chaotically fabulous exchange. 

The title of the finale, ‘Maybe When We’re 30’, was a bit of smack in the feels. Everyone’s reached that age lately, haven’t they? Or does it just seem that way? The track calmly explores everything from Facebook to David Beckham in its words, while staying a steadily paced round-off to proceedings. The guitars get a bit shreddy towards the outro, but it’s mainly a gentle reminder that time’s pressing on — but this group’s still seriously going for it. 

If you only download one track, let it be: ‘Sensible’

*With thanks to Chuff Media for the advanced stream.