Category Archives: EP Review

EP Review, Indie, New Music

Rowan ‘No One Is Safe Here’ EP

Rowan photographed by Zyanya Lorenzo.

Following the success of their 2 last singles ‘Moonlight’ and ‘I Had A Dream’, and after a mini tour in Ireland, UK, Toronto and New York up until lockdown, Rowan have released their debut EP ‘No One Is Safe Here’.Rowan bursted onto the Irish and UK music scene with their first release ‘Finish Line’ being featured on titan Spotify playlists such as New Music Friday UK, Your Kitchen Stereo, The Indie List and many others. Since then, they have accumulated over 200k plays in total. The indie trio are currently commanding a great deal of attention for their symphonic indie-anthems, particularly in Ireland, the UK, Germany and Canada. The band have supported internationally renowned artists such as Badly Drawn Boy, The Walls, Duke Special, Brian Deady, Hamsandwich and many more and have earned international recognition as they were nominated for an IMA, judged by Robert Smith, Tom Waits, Roberta Flack and many others, with their song ‘Big Wave’. The band have also been awarded the ‘Colin Vearncombe’ Songwriting award.

Well crafted, and doused in emotion ‘No One Is Safe Here’ is a smashing debut EP from Rowan. The band use their musical prowess to pull out all the stops with this wonderfully rich collection of tracks. From dynamic anthems to moving ballads the EP flows with tantalizing arrangements and deft embellishments. Blending sharp zest stricken indie elements in warm undertones of folk, sweet surges of pop and edged rock the EP is a joy ride of lush soundscapes.

Rowan weave the EP’s soundscapes superbly, utilising jangly indie guitar, buoyant drums and resounding bass rumbles to inject ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Big Wave’ with vigor. Creating a full bodied wall of sound they provide meaty choruses and soaring sing along melodies to provide that passion igniting explosions of the soul worthy of arenas. 

Rowan cool things down with some heartfelt and beautifully crafted slow burners ‘Love Gets In The Way’ and ‘I Had A Dream’. Exuding cinematic arrangements, lush strings, powerful crescendos and earnest songwriting these tracks showcase the band’s maturity and heartfelt musicianship as they discuss longing for perfect love, and the loss of love.

‘No One Is Safe Here’ comes to a close with the animated piano led ‘You’re Not The One’. Doused in sombre tones while a building vibrant backdrop of strident strings and raw guitars ricochet off a tight percussive wall of sound – this blistering song is joy to the ears. The dramatic builds and grateful drops in tone on the track is masterful and showcases the versatility and mesmerising talent of Rowan

Rowan has created an exhilarating EP showcasing first rate musicianship. These guys aren’t just crafting their sound, they are thriving, pushing boundaries, exceeding expectations and releasing tunes of the highest quality.

Stream ‘No One Is Safe Here’ below


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, EP Review, New Music

Basilisk ‘Medusa’ EP

Texas hardcore rock band Basilisk have released their debut EP ‘Medusa’. Basilisk started in spring of 2019 as a multi-ethnic All-American beat down hardcore project compiled of Jimmy MF Bones hailing from Dallas, Texas, Chris Edwards, Jonathon Baker from Fort Worth, Sam Boatner from Kansas creating dark and yet catchy tunes.Tackling big and difficult themes in their lyrics, Basilisk are unafraid to ruffle feathers and use the opportunity to write about suicide, recidivism, institutionalization, politics and overcoming anger and hatred.

 ‘Medusa’ is a frantic assault of hard core rock as Basilisk whack blood thirsty riffs over a ground shaking rhythmic section to create an intense EP that is not for the faint hearted. The EP thunders in on ‘Snakebite Understanding’ with intense rumbles on bass and a relentless drum battering. The tracks on Medusa have a mighty mosh ready sound with the band fusing elements of punk rock and metal to create their raw heavy sound while lyrics are spit and growled out through sharp guitars to create a tight and deafening soundscape. The pummeling rhythm and crashing guitars frantically run riot through each track on the EP evoking images of a crazy mosh pit at live gigs. Continuing the dark and aggressive tone ‘Dominant Species’ and ‘Beyonder’ bring the EP to a close just as manic and dynamic as their predecessors,

‘Medusa’ is a robust, powerful hard core rock EP that bruises and slashes with potent riffs and masterfully fierce rhythms. Basilisk present an EP that maintains an aggressive and forceful pace throughout. A sublime debut from Basilisk.

Stream ‘Medusa’ below 


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Longcoats ‘October’ EP

SONY DSC

Longcoats have released their new EP ‘October’. Longcoats are a four piece pop rock outfit hailing from The South West of England. The band present a solid, tight and instrumentally deft EP brimming with passion and catchy melodies.The energetic jaunty indie sound this band provide is impressive as they surge zealous guitar lines, funky basslines and dynamic drums into each blistering tune. ‘Drag’ kicks off this speedball of energy – infectious and blasing with anthemic power this indie belter is a fantastic opening track. The band coat their buoyant instrumentation in irresistible pop-peppered melodies and instant hooks against shredding solo’s and blazing heartfelt instrumentation. Each song evokes images of mass sing-alongs at gigs while creating a vibrant listening experience. Even the more emotional tunes, ‘Used To Being Used’, ‘October’ and ‘Plasticine’ have an upbeat infectious radiance. Longcoats have a wonderful ability to create tunes that brighten your day. The songs are laced in intricate well placed guitar lines and groove infested bass lines that keep each song animated and dance ready. 

‘October’ is a cohesive thoroughly enjoyable EP from Longcoats. The band are building and crafting their sound superbly and the result is a tidy energetic and emotive collection of tracks sure to be knocking around in your head all day. 

Stream ‘October’ below


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, EP Review, Indie Punk, indie rock, New Music, Rock

Vulpynes ‘Us Against Them’ EP

Vulpynes are back with their latest EP ‘Us Against Them’ on FOAD/Advance Records.The four blistering tracks were initially penned as part of their debut album, however when Covid hit they decided to release the four tracks as an EP. 

‘Us Against Them’ is a fantastic display of raw untainted alternative rock. Vulpynes lean heavily on a punk, abrasive attitude to create a knockout four track EP boasting some seriously heavy riffage. With fuzz-laced guitar riffs and pummelling drums ‘One Horse Mind’ is the perfect album opener. This adrenaline-fuelled song is sure to have you moshing within seconds.

Vulpynes douse their sound in sinister undertones, catchy melodies and vigorous hooks to make ‘Sister’ one of the pinnacle moments on the EP. This track is an invigorating blast of alternative rock which leaves the listener feeling pumped and craving for more.

However the frantic gallop of ‘This Motor Is Me’ and the dark, fuzz-saturated ‘Control Is Not What I Need’ deserve special attention. These two glorious tracks display the talent and musical growth of this duo, showing Vulpynes’ sound has fermented and curdled into something truely thrilling. The tight brisk riffs are executed with such precision and brawn it’s awe-inspiring while the groove presented on drums by Kaz is an otherworldly rampage of terror and delight as she shifts nimbly between raw rumbles, mighty thumps and thunderous bashes. Maeve Molly’s distinctive, raspy vocals anchor the listener within the musical maelstrom. She spits and bellows out the lyrics matching the all consuming wall of sound with her enticing tone.

Exuding a heavy dollop of riot attitude, Vulpynes have created a fiery alternative rock EP in ‘Us Against Them’. With tunes full of catchy melodies and addictive riffs Vulpynes are a force to be reckoned with.

Stream ‘Us Against Them’ below


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Kill ‘Em Charlie ‘I Hope This Works for You (‘Cause it Does for Me)’ EP

Hailing from Tipperary, Kill ‘Em Charlie are a five piece indie rock outfit. Newly re-imagined and taking their sound to blistering new heights, they have released their new EP, ‘I Hope This Works for You (‘Cause it Does for Me)’. Showcasing deft hooks, swaggering musicianship and some seriously slick riffage the EP is an impressive display of indie rock. 

The band pivot their slick guitar lines around a punchy drum foundation while elastic wriggles on bass create a dark luring undertone in ‘Dark Maneuvers’ and ‘I’m Not Alone’. The tracks explode with heavy jagged moments of epic alternative rock proportions as Kill ‘Em Charlie build tension through gritty riffs, sweet backing vocal coos and pulverising rhythms which provide a satisfying mosh worthy listening experience.

The band’s clean, catchy and expressive melodies surge adrenaline and panache throughout providing a light and sometimes dreamy release from the crashing wall of sound. However it’s ‘One Thing To Say’ which displays the band’s tight, refined instrumental, and melodic prowess. Showcasing light jangly guitar, jazzy keys and bouncy beats teamed with tropical tones and glimmers of The Strokes between some pretty slick arrangements, the track is a special moment on the EP. It’s dangerously catchy, well crafted and radio ready. The vocals are strong, smooth and blend perfectly with the bands scorching sound.

The five piece keep the EP traveling at high intensity and don’t allow any track to dampen the EP’s stride. Even the glum titled ‘This Is A Proper Quarter Life Crisis’ blazes with lively indie rock, enriched with rampant bass lines, razor sharp guitar lacerations and pulverizing drums – paving the way for the dynamic ’Victoria Avenue’ . Each song on the EP warrants repeat listens and the band use the blazing track ‘I’m Not Alone’ to close the EP, leaving you craving to hear more. 

‘I Hope This Works for You (‘Cause it Does for Me)’ is a solid debut EP from Kill ‘Em Charlie. The five piece are showing strong musical growth as they experiment and hone in on their sound. Looking forward to hearing more from this band.

Stream ‘I Hope This Works for You (‘Cause it Does for Me)’ below


Author : Danu

EP Premiere, EP Review, Indie, indie rock, New Music

Bob Baker ‘The Bob Baker Sound’

Bob Baker has released his debut EP ‘The Bob Baker Sound’. His debut single ‘The Way It Is’ got its first radio play as a featured track on BBC Introducing in the East Midlands as well as becoming Track of the Week on BBC Radio Derby.

‘The Bob Baker Sound’ is a jaunty cohesive collection of tracks doused in Bob Baker’s heartfelt, light and utterly enjoyable musicianship. With driving rhythms, chugging guitars and quick lyrics ‘The Way It Is’ and ‘I Know You Did It’ kick starts the EP with a hearty full bodied sound. There are elements reminiscent of Jake Bugg within the songs which exudes a brisk youthful adrenaline.

Baker laces each track in catchy melodies, irresistible hooks and a bright fun atmosphere that will put a smile on your face. However ‘I’m Not The Same As You’, takes a darker tone as Baker sprinkles sharp guitar and power rock gusto into an airy more sombre melody. With light keys and a mighty chorus build the track is quite the passionate mature gem.

Baker takes his time fleshing out the instrumental backdrops, adding new layers and textures within each song. From the vigorous indie in ‘The Way It Is’ with dynamic guitars and punching drums to the soft twinkling on keys for the sweeter ‘Chase The Wind’ each song has its own identity on the EP. Baker’s smooth warm vocals tie all the tracks together oozing confidence, emotion and effortless charm. 

Baker is a talented songwriter. His witty lyrics elevate his vibrant tunes to a fun and quirky level. The tracks on ‘The Bob Baker Sound’ are satisfying, foot tapping gems which mark Baker as an artist to keep an eye on. 

About the EP, Bob Baker sent us a track by track breakdown to give us insight into what inspired the songs

The Way It Is

” ‘The Way It Is’ is a song about sudden rejection I suppose. One minute everything’s going smoothly the next minute the rug gets pulled from under your feet and you’re forced to change direction very quickly. When something like that happens you’re given no choice but to accept it, crack on with things and do what you’re good at. That’s just the way it is. “

I’m Not The Same As You

” ‘I’m not the same as you’ is a song about being close to someone but realising certain differences between you and them. A situation that I’m sure many people can empathise with. “

Don’t Chase the Wind

” It’s one of those songs that the listener can apply to their own situation. For me this was all about watching someone throwing away a great situation when all I could do was stand at the side and watch “

I know You Did It

” I know you did it is a bit of everything, humour, anger & honesty. It’s the irony of the plain truth amidst flat denial, woven into a tune that I hope won’t get out of your head “

Stream ‘The Bob Baker Sound’ below


Author : Danu

Alt Rock, EP Review, indie rock, New Music

Circus Wolves ‘This Is Something You Can’t Replace’ EP

Guy Wynn Davies (vocals), Cameron Tetlow (drums), Ben Dodson (bass) Jack Taylor and Jim Ker (guitars) comprise Manchester five-piece Circus Wolves. They have released their new EP ‘This Is Something You Can’t Replace’. Circus Wolves have shared the stage with the likes of The Slow Readers Club, and The Amazons. Their EP ‘Annie Baby’ (2013) was followed up with fan favourite ‘Tourist’ in March 2017. ‘Judas’ (2017) received high praise from both BBC Introducing in Manchester and Radio XS. 2018 saw the introduction of Ben Dodson on bass and the band continuing their working relationship with Bob Cooper with ‘Infamy’ (released February 2018).

Boasting untamed, dynamic instrumentation ‘This Is Something You Can’t Replace’ is a tight collection of tracks which displays Circus Wolves’ raw unbridled rock in all its glory. With an ominous and suspenseful ‘Intro’ the EP kicks into motion. Exuding sharp guitar riffs, pummeling drums and rampant bass grooves the track sets the EP’s tone, wonderfully paving the way for the ferocious ‘Hunt You Down’ and ‘The Taste’ which oozes light guitar refrains weaving between the band’s punchy rhythmic backdrop. With soaring indie guitar punctuating the elastic bass rumbles and buoyant drum whacks, ‘Clarity’ continues the EP’s instrumentally wild sound.

A lamenting guitar echoes, through the airy soundscape of ‘Pulling Teeth’. This building track is passionate, electrifying and cinematic in scope. ‘Pulling Teeth’ emits an icy tone as the listener is invited to indulge in the songs intricate layers of weaving and twinkling guitars, wriggling bass and steady drums while the haunting emotive vocals and melancholic melody provide the ultimate end for the EP. 

Circus Wolves have created a mature and well crafted EP with ‘This Is Something You Can’t Replace’. They are cultivating their sound superbly to create music which chills and thrills all at once. Each track on the EP is an impressive expression of the bands musical prowess and deft musicianship.

Stream ‘This Is Something You Can’t Replace’ below 


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Drew Thomas ‘Early Hours’ EP

Drew Thomas has released his debut EP ‘Early Hours’. Drew Thomas is a singer/songwriter raised in Nottingham and living in London. He has spent the past few years playing shows around the country including slots at Reading & Leeds festival, Y Not festival and Shepherds Bush Empire. Drew’s previous offerings have been heavily tipped and featured by the likes of BBC Introducing, Sofar Sounds, Atwood, God is in the TV and numerous other online tastemakers.

‘Early Hours’ is a moving collection of tracks as Drew Thomas uses his heartfelt songwriting and gripping soundscapes to create an emotional rollercoaster. With elegant keys, punchy drums and cinematic crescendo’s ‘Lying On The Concrete’ and  ‘Running Reds’ kick start the EP with a multitude of emotions and rich textures.

The EP holds the listeners heart in suspense. Through the lyrics Drew tells uplifting, coming of age tales about finding yourself and the vices we hold that others don’t see. Using dark undertones, ethereal keys and indie pop melodies he balances themes of melancholy and feelings of loneliness with themes of hope to create a charming and compelling collection of tracks.

Drew displays his knack with beautiful emotive melodies through ‘Somebody You Needed’, the bittersweet melody drifts into an airy soundscape creating a tender tear-jerker. Soft keys wisps through pulsing electronics and steady beat, allowing the track to venture into darker territory while Drew’s clear warm vocals ooze soul and passion.

As ‘Early Hours’ progresses each song shows a different aspect to Drew’s musicianship. He simmers his emotive pop with subtle electronic elements to create a powerful and enthralling listening experience. This is shown most effectively in ‘High (On Our Own)’, the track which brings the EP to a gripping end. The song builds with power pop and indie elements as intense guitars blend with dramatic synths and snappy drums to create a hair-raising evocative finale.

‘Early Hours’ boasts the passionate and striking musicianship of Drew Thomas as he builds cinematic and powerful instrumentation around his gripping songwriting and velvety vocals to create a mature, earnest and uplifting collection of tracks. 

Stream ‘Early Hours’ below


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Angie McMahon ‘Piano Salt’ EP

Australian songwriter Angie McMahon has released ‘Piano Salt’ a beautiful stripped-down companion piece to last year’s debut album ‘Salt’. The Melbourne, Australia-based artist adapted with a return to the instrument that helped her fall in love with music in the first place – the piano. The new collection finds her reimagining five fan favorites from her debut album ‘Salt’

The soothing and beautifully arranged piano EP displays a new facet to McMahon’s poetic flair as she takes ‘Soon’, ‘Slow Mover’ and ‘Keeping Time’ and dips them into a delicate emotive soundscape without the aid of production and varied instruments at her disposal, in fact the lack of instruments is what makes theses versions come to life. It truly feels the songs flourish within this setting, free to breathe and speak for themselves as McMahon’s mesmerising and emotive vocals allow the listeners mind to ruminate on the heartfelt lyrics.

From classic piano embellishments in ‘Soon’ to simple chord progressions in ‘Slow Mover’ McMahon’s songs take flight within this ethereal EP. McMahon takes the bluesy ‘Pasta’ and creates a more delicate rendition that allows you to focus on the clever, emotive and lonely lyrics. This rendition becomes timeless on ‘Piano Salt’ as the sweet harmonies and sombre piano heighten the tracks more hair-raising moments as it builds to the powerful crescendo.

There are extra little treats within this majestic collection as well. A goosebump-inducing cover of Bruce Springsteen’s ‘The River’ is ecstasy to the ears; soothing, nostalgic and powerful as McMahon’s soulful vocals sprawl over the beautiful melody with ease and such emotion. While maintaining the coldness of the original she provides her own magical tone, style and finesse to this beautifully painful song with a lofty whistle feature reinforcing the lament on piano.

A sublime, soft and heartfelt rendition of ‘If You Call’ features on the album with guest vocals from Leif Vollebekk. Their voices blend and melt together like butter on hot toast, it’s an utterly immaculate piece of music. Another delight is McMahon’s haunting cover of Lana Del Rey’s ‘Born to Die’ which showcases her deeper range while her pacifying tone highlights the track superbly.

McMahon’s ‘Salt’ is an album that was so impactful and compelling it garnered such huge praise and support. The beauty of ‘Piano Salt’ is it highlights the powerful and poignant lyrics within the songs while showcasing just how talented McMahon is. The listener gets a keyhole glimpse into the creative genius of a unique and intriguing artist.

About ‘Piano Salt’ McMahon said : “Piano is the first instrument I learnt and the one that made me first love singing. My favourite piano song when I was young was k.d lang’s cover of ‘Hallelujah.’ So this EP feels like a return to my piano-cover-loving inner kid. It’s been a really nice creative opportunity to recreate the feeling of some bigger songs off my first record, give them a new life, and cover some of my favourite songs too. It gave me something to do when we went into quarantine. The creative process also helped me shed some fear around sounding too cheesy on the piano, or too sad – I realised that doesn’t matter so much because I just love to play and sing.”

Stream ‘Piano Salt’ below


Author : Danu

EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Diamonds in the Dark Self-Titled Debut EP

Diamonds in the Dark have released their debut self-titled EP which was recorded between Liverpool’s Motor Museum studio by producer Loic Gaillard and 2flystudios in Sheffield with former Arctic Monkey’s producer Alan Smyth.Diamonds in the Dark have grown from a two-man songwriting project to a six-man energetic live act. Already gaining recognition from UK radio, the Merseyside band have been championed by Dave Monks on his BBC Introducing show. Dedicated to this release, Diamonds in the Dark spent a year perfecting their music and recording in different locations surrounding a live gig schedule.

A full bodied, cohesive body of work – ‘Diamonds in the Dark’ EP is a whirlwind journey through multiple genres and refined songwriting. Through five tracks the band explore themes of detachment, surrealism and romance within a number of styles including alt-rock, dream pop, psychedelia and 80s synth driven music. Shredding guitars, brawny drums and beefy bass grooves create the bands alternative rock assault with the aid of epic builds and punchy moments in ‘Getaway’ and ‘Bliss’. The blending of genres makes the EP fresh and engaging as each track holds its own character with powerful vocals and catchy melodies creating that earworm hook throughout each song. The contrasting 80’s synth driven ‘Humble Remarks’ gives a danceable disco vibe to the EP while the indie pop swoon of ‘Berlin’ wisps the tone of the EP into a romantic nostalgic daze. With twinkling guitars, steady beat and melancholic melody this track is quite the bittersweet gem. The band bring the EP to a close with ‘I Love The Way’. This dream-pop, indie-infused number is an emotional power ballad set to an ethereal backdrop with twinkling piano, 60’s – esque vibes and lush harmonies – it’s a sublime end to an eclectic EP.

Diamonds in the Dark present a powerful EP brimming with emotive tunes and sublime musicianship. Looking forward to hearing more from them.

Stream ‘Diamonds in the Dark’ EP below

https://ditto.fm/diamonds-in-the-dark


Author : Danu