EP Review

Club Paradise Teases New EP with Summer Anthems ‘Years’ and ‘Chasing the Summer’ – SINGLE REVIEW

31st Jul 2024 — 1 Comment

Club Paradise have started the countdown to their new EP by releasing two great teaser tracks to whet the appetite before their October release.

The first of the two tracks, Years, starts with a bold guitar solo, which glides over a bright synth line.

The verses to the track builds the tension with reverby guitar swells intersecting a driving rhythm section which gains pace as it continues.

The chorus twinkles with a sparkly synth line driving the catchy eighties-inspired melody. It is here that you can hear the influence of bands like The 1975, as well as a range of other indie pop groups.

The song has a smart pop sense and a glittery production; but, it also knows how to deliver a punch with the crunchy guitar solos and dark lyrics, which contrast the light production.

Previous single, Chasing the Summer, has lofty ambitions, beginning with a huge intro featuring a big guitar solo and thumping drums.

The vocals immediately hit you and are delivered with passion and energy. These are joined by backing vocals in the verses, which once again reminded me a lot of The 1975.

The chorus is huge, with guitar lines which go hard over a thumping beat. Overall, the track is the epitome of an anthem with huge guitars and catchy melodies.

Together, these tracks do a great job of wetting the appetite for the upcoming EP, which arrives in October.

Monte Grisa – Resurrection – EP Review

28th Apr 2024 — Leave a comment

Monte Grisa’s Resurrection EP showcases the Darlington based post punk band at their very best with four meticulously crafted tracks that encapsulate their dark and moody sound.

The EP opens with “A Confession” driven by dark ominous synths reminiscent of groups such as Joy Division during their darker moments. The lyrics repeat a self-deprecating mantra, acting as a nice metaphor for the struggles of having low self esteem and setting the brooding tone for the rest of the record.

Next “Deep” begins with a sharp drum machine section that builds anticipation. The synths enter as the song progresses, accompanied by an ethereal chorus of backing vocals, which act as unheavenly choir enhancing the gothic atmosphere. The track breaks down into an engaging guitar riff, which keeps the listener on the edge of their seat with it’s interesting structure.

The third track “Regression” discusses the declining standards of society, with frontman Josh Cowey expressing his shame and apathy towards it to excellent effect with an introspective set of lyrics.

The excellent “Shotgun” ends the EP with a driving rhythm section and Cowey’s passionate baritone vocals, which bring a beautifully dark energy to the song. The emotion in the vocal delivery, paired with the descending guitar line, creates a compelling finale.

Overall, this EP is an excellent offering and should not be missed if you’re a fan of dark and gothic post punk with deep meaningful lyrics and well thought out, clever song writing which makes the EP well worth a listen. You can check it out here.