7/10

When we first hear of a well-known actors looking to enter the music scene, there is usually a collective groan to the level of self-indulgence that we can expect. Many film performers have tried and failed to make an impact in the audio world, usually because it is clear that their place is on the screen and nowhere else. But for Wallows, fronted by Dylan Minnette, best known for his roles in Goosebumps, Don't Breathe, and 13 Reasons Why, this is clearly not an indulgence for their silver-screened singer but a long and developing project that the three have been working on for more than a decade.

From the start, 'Nothing Happens' is clearly the product of three kids who grew up through the indie resurgence of the mid-noughties. With its sweeping guitars and eclectic production values, this new record has the solid influence of bands like The Strokes and The Shins running through it. Yet while there are times when it feels like they have simply copied that original sound, by releasing this new material now, there is an inherent freshness to their appeal, as they meander through a very succinct and cohesive tracklist to create a very enjoyable and well-rounded collection in the process.

There isn't much in the way of significant hit singles on here, but what it lacks in radio-friendly additions, it makes up for in progressive and engaging songwriting. Wallows may have been working on this record for many years beforehand, but it still has that rich and instant impact that all confident debut albums display.