Glasgow-based The Deadline Shakes have only played a few gigs since their recent formation, but the charming “Sweeten the Deal” suggests they’re naturals. Swift electric guitars and trickling acoustics converge over Greg Dingwall’s chirpy vocals, which are at their best during the occasional bridges where both guitar sections alternate turns over faint key twinkles. “Because I’m lonely and I’m desperate, how can you resist that?” he sings during the song’s catchiest moment, right before a crisp guitar solo. “How can I sweeten the deal for you any more?” This is excellent power-pop with noticeable Scottish roots. They’re doing fellow Scots, like Teenage Fanclub, proud.
