Where There's Life | EP Review

Edinburgh’s Where There’s Life have just released their new self-titled EP, which combines pop punk with heavier fragments, similar to the likes of Four Year Strong and A Day To Remember. The EP contains 5 relentless tracks which get the balance between heaviness and pop punk just right 

First of all, the EP launches into Wasted. Although the song is just over a minute long, it sets the EP off at the right pace with upbeat, melodic vocals and bold riffs.  

Up next is Lego which opens with a punchy riff. The song is vivacious and parades an abundance of energy, aided by an unforgettable chorus. The song also holds an impressive breakdown three quarters of the way through unleashing the bands heavier pop punk side.

The third track is Where We Go. The introduction is bouncy with an impressive vocal melody that immediately grasps your attention. The song is buoyant and uplifting, exhibiting a profusion of energy. The gang vocals towards serve the band well, creating a perfect excuse to sing along.

Twenty Three displays Where There’s Life’s more fervent side and they pull it off well. From just listening to this track, it would be hard to guess that the previous three tracks were cheery pop punk anthems. The song displays impassioned lyrics and coincides with vehement vocals.

Anchors returns Where There’s Life to more their chilled side. The song has a poppy chorus complimented by amiable riffs. The song is straightforward but enticing, harbouring a crisp riff just as it ends, prompting you to hit replay.  

Overall, Where There’s Life have put together an impressive EP, especially considering it was recorded in their guitarist's bedroom without external help. The juxtaposition of the soft vocals and the heavy guitar parts are a nice touch and although it’s nothing new, Where There’s Life have made it their own and have done an incredible job of it. The lyrics denote youthful themes but at no point are they futile or credulous, displaying a mature flare. If you’re a fan of Four Year Strong, A Day To Remember or Me vs Hero, definitely give these guys a listen. 

Check out the EP below:



Where There's Life's Facebook | Twitter | Youtube | Soundcloud

Trash Boat | Brainwork Review

For a band that have only been around for a year, Trash Boat have already come a long way. Last year, the band released their first EP Look Alive which certified them as one of the foremost UK pop punk bands around at the moment. Now, a year later, the band have just announced that they've signed to Hopeless Records following in the footsteps of Neck Deep and ROAM. With the signing, the guys also announced that they would be releasing their new EP 'Brainwork' just in time for the summer months. 

Brainwork starts off with Taylor, a minute long opener which kick things off straight away. After a captivating start, the song shoots into a fast, up-beat, rhythmic section with fervent vocals. The EP then launches into Saving Face, another of Brainwork's rapid-paced tracks with an engrossing riff. The lyrics are self-loathing and sincere, structured into a melodic chorus. 

Up next is Perspective which Trash Boat have just released a video for. Lyrically, Perspective attends to vocalist Tobi Duncan's health issues and the torment and adversity can be detected through his fierce vocals. At first, the song starts off slowly but the pace soon picks. The song is a dynamic mix of energy blended with a powerful vocal melody.    

The fourth song, As Seen On Our Screen, deals with the struggles of a tedious job and trying to escape to find something better. The song is definitely one that stands out, with the opening riff instantly able to capture your attention. The chorus on this song is also striking, coinciding nicely with the catchy, intoxicating riffs and the wholehearted lyrics.

The final song, Eleven, is definitely the most fast paced. However, it does slow down towards the end, combined with gang vocals which chant 'rip my heart from my sleeve, sinking deep inside my chest'.  It's a vigorous close to the EP, with a profusion of energy which is ingrained with ardent lyrics. 

Overall, Brainwork is an EP loaded with rapid, breakneck songs which only slow down for a second or so. Every song is filled with enthralling guitar parts, earnest lyrics and a vehement tempo. The lyrics cover themes such as health, self-scrutiny and escaping terrible jobs; it's easy to depict a crowd of people shouting these lyrics back when played live. Brainwork leans more towards the punk than pop side of pop-punk and Trash Boat pull it off well. It's clear that Trash Boat have stuck to all the elements that made their previous EP Look Alive great, while also not becoming too repetitive. 

Brainwork is out on the 18th of May. Stream it below:



Trash Boat's Facebook | Twitter | Bandcamp 

Landmarks | Fighting Gravity Review

Manchester pop punks, Landmarks, have just released their brand new EP, Fighting Gravity, the follow up to their debut EP Running On Empty, which was released in 2013. Fighting Gravity contains five songs of zealous, up-beat  vigour, proving once again that UK pop punk is really making a statement at the moment. 

The first track, '40mg', is a lively, energetic opener. It soon becomes evident, after about twenty seconds, that Landmarks definitely know what they are doing when it comes to writing pop punk songs. The guitar parts are sprightly, the lyrics are sincere and it also possesses a rapid tempo. 

The EP then launches into 'Comfort In These Chords', which is brisk from the start. The chorus on this track is outstanding, with the unforgettable vocal melody complimenting the heavier guitar parts well. The latter half of this song is filled with unrestrained energy which instantly grips your attention.    
   
Up next is 'Worse For Wear', which is a vivacious song, complete with a buoyant vocal melody and dynamic guitar parts. 'Worse For Wear' then leads into 'Bones' which, despite being a slower song, provides an abundance of energy. It contains a sense of ardent emotion integrated with candid lyrics. Sometimes it can seem a little cliché to throw in a sad song on an EP, but Landmarks pull it off well. You can hear and feel the raw emotion obtruding throughout the song, especially with the vocals.   

The last song on the EP, 'Catapults', displays Landmarks's slightly heavier side. Although it starts softly, it quickly transforms into vehement, energetic song, hampered with alluring riffs.  

Overall, Fighting Gravity is an exceptional EP. It's packed with fun, vigorous songs, whilst also obtaining forthright, honest and mature lyrics. Even though the cover is grey, this EP will definitely not leave you feeling sorrowful. Landmarks have incorporated a classic pop punk sound whilst also putting their own spin on things; the heavier guitar riffs in some parts add a nice touch and the vocal parts are impressively catchy. If you're a fan of bands like Boston Manor and Six Time Champion, then Fighting Gravity is definitely something you should check out...

Fighting Gravity is out now! Check out the video for '40mg' below:



Landmarks's Facebook | Twitter | Youtube | Bandcamp

Stereo Age | Half Of Us Review

Italian pop punks, Stereo Age, have just released their new EP, Half of Us. The EP combines 8 tracks of raw pop punk that will leave you captivated after the first listen. Each track incorporates the best elements of pop punk: a rapid pace, memorable lyrics and vibrant guitar tones. Half Of Us is reminiscent of early 2000’s pop punk while also incorporating newer styles and vocal melodies. 

The EP starts off with the title track, Half of Us, a minute long, piano induced opener that includes people conversing over the top. If you were to play Half Of Us on its own, separate from the rest of the EP, it would leave no suggestion that you were about to listen to an energetic pop punk EP. Nevertheless, it is an enticing and unique opener with both English and Italian parts. After ‘Half of us’ the EP launches in to Learn to Be Late, a resilient track with an incisive chorus. 

The EP has a number of enthralling riffs. For example, Stickers and Thanks For The Truth open with a striking set of engaging, energetic riffs that instantly leave you hooked. For this reason, Stickers and Thanks For The Truth obtrude as some of the stand out tracks. The riffs are complimented by impressive vocal melodies and vehement drum beats which make it impossible not to bounce your head. 

Round 12 is a dynamic song that provides the most harmonious chorus on the EP. After this Memorandum, a short-lived ,upbeat song comes into play which delivers a ferocious punch. 

Cigarettes, Skinned Knees and Everything In between and City Rain are the last two tracks on the EP. Cigarettes is a slower song, making it more emotive. On the other hand, City Rain is another song with a rapid pace. The tracks act as a vigorous contrast which bring the EP to a triumphant close.  

Overall, Half Of Us is an enchanting EP, filled with the kind of pop punk songs that need to be played out loud on a sunny day. Stereo Age’s energy is relentless and this, accompanied by the charming riffs and catchy, melodious vocal parts and swift pace, makes for a great EP and something we’ll definitely have on repeat. If you’re a fan of bands like New Found Glory, A Loss For Words or The Wonder Years, we definitely recommend that you check these guys out…

Half Of Us is out now! Check out Round 12:

Stereo Age's Facebook |  Twitter |  Bandcamp | Tumblr 

Neck Deep (Intercontinental Championships Tour) | Live Review

Roughly a week ago, Neck Deep commenced on another headline tour of the UK, this time bringing some very special guests. The tour had a wrestling theme because, to quote Ben Barlow, the guys thought it would be ‘funny’. Another nice addition was that each of the bands playing were from  different countries, showcasing a wide variety of disparity within the pop punk genre. Seaway hail from Canada, Trophy Eyes come from Australia and Knuckle Puck come from the US. On the 27th of January, Neck Deep brought the Intercontinental Championships Tour to Birmingham, and we were lucky enough to catch all the bands doing their thing...

Up first was Seaway, who arrive on to the stage with South Park’s ‘Blame Canada’. After a warm welcome, the guys launch straight into the first song from their new EP, ‘Your Best Friend’. The song builds up the  atmosphere in the audience with vocalist, Ryan Locke, asking the crowd to ‘jump around’ and it certainly works; the excitement is rife with extensive sing-alongs happening all around. Throughout their whole set Seaway do not endure the awkwardness of being the first act on stage and the crowd doesn't stop moving throughout.  Seaway play a variety of songs from their debut album ‘Hoser’, as well as songs from their new EP ‘All in My Head’. The co-vocals of Ryan Locke and Patrick Carleton work really well and the fun, upbeat, all most sweet pop punk is a perfect opener for the show.

Next Up is Trophy Eyes, who come on to a bit of ACDC . The band play various songs from their recent album ‘Mend, Move On’ and their EP ‘Everything Goes Away’. A lot of people have criticised John Floreani’s aggressive vocal style, stating that it wouldn’t work live. However, tonight Floreani can silence his critics as his vocals are at no point weak and they add a unique twist to the pop punk on tonight’s bill. The band also encourage the crowd to participate, with Floreani asking the crowd to ‘come up the front’. Overall, Trophy Eyes add a heavier blend to tonight’s mix, showcasing their abilities with vehement drums and belligerent guitar.

On next is Chicago’s Knuckle Puck who open with ‘Your Back Porch’. Joe Taylor keeps up the energy throughout the set, with the crowd singing along to every word. Knuckle Puck play a variety of songs from their first EPs ‘Don’t Come Home’ and ‘The Weight That You Buried’ and even both songs from their split with Neck Deep. However, the band’s live performance really shines when playing songs from their new EP ‘While I stay Secluded’ and they prove that the new tracks are something they should be proud of. 

Finally, Neck Deep arrive on the stage. As a band, Neck Deep have not had a long history. Forming in 2012 they’ve released two EPs and their debut album Wishful Thinking. Consequently, it is impressive and considerably inspiring to see them sell out the O2 academy, even if it is the smaller second room. Throughout the set, Neck Deep showcase their talents and remind everyone how they have become so successful, with their down to earth, all-encompassing pop punk.  Their live show is on point, with the band putting 110% effort into every verse and chorus they play. The show includes songs that they’ve never played live before, such as Zoltar Speaks and older songs such as Over and Over. Unfortunately, the band had no new songs to play live from their upcoming second album (Fil stated that they would sound shit at the moment anyway) but they make up for it with their stunning performance throughout the rest of the night.

Overall, the Intercontinental Championships Tour is a night that no pop punk fan will forget in a hurry. While it was awesome to see Neck Deep, the tour provided an opportunity for Seaway, Trophy Eyes and Knuckle Puck to showcase their talents and also have their first experience in the UK. We can wait to see them all again soon…

New Found Glory Resurrection Review

If there's one way to get over the departure of one of your band mates after having a solid line up for all of your carer, writing a freaking awesome album like Resurrection is definitely one. In fact, it's safe to say that New Found Glory might be coming back stronger than ever, proving that being a four piece is going to work just as well, if not better. For a band who have been doing the pop punk thing since 1997, it's remarkable that NFG are still able to rehabilitate their sound into something new without drifting too far from their trademark mix of pop punk with the occasional easycore riff and an abundance of catchy choruses. 

The album starts with Selfless, one of the first songs which was released prior to the release date. The song starts with a riff that immediately lets you know that picking up the album was a good life decision. Two thirds of the way through, the tempo picks up and it's the kind moment that gives you chills while simultaneously making you want to high-five all of NFG for making such an awesome song. The album then moves on to Resurrection which has a riff you would kill to listen to live. It's also  the most reminiscent of older pop punk, the place where NFG thrived and something they still manage to pull off to this day.

Another stand out track is Ready and Willing, one of the catchiest songs from Resurrection. While it could class as a not so heavy track, one more reminiscent of Radiosurgery, it is still includes a signature Chad Gilbert riff and also has the presence of gang vocals which provide a perfect opportunity to sing along. Next up is One More Round which feels like it was destined to be played live. Vicious Love is track number six and a love song with a difference. While Jordan sings 'We've got a Vicious Love, we mix our tears with blood' he's accompanied by another of Chad's amazing riffs. Other stand out songs include: Persistent, Stories of a Different Kind, Degenerate, Stubborn and Living Hell. All include the fast paced drums, the memorable choruses that embed themselves in your head all day and the incomparable riffs that have just the right amount of pop punk and heaviness weaved into them 

All in all, New Found Glory's Resurrection is something that any pop punk fan should add to their collection. Like most pop punk it's honest, vivacious and something that you kill to hear live. The most impressive thing about New Found Glory is that with each new album they have been able to reinvent themselves without straying from their signature take on the pop punk genre and Resurrection is no exception. With this album, NFG have added heavier influences with the use of intricate riffs which add a distinctive dynamic. It's also obvious that a lot of time and effort has been put in it and it's refreshing to see a band who are still passionate and love what they do even after 17 years....

Me vs Hero | I'm Completely Fine Review

It has been four years since Me vs Hero released their debut album, Days That Shaped Our Lives, and we have missed them a hell of a lot. Speaking to Rock Sound, the band have said that the album, who’s title started as a joke paraphrasing Alan Partridge’s immortal line – Yeah I’m Completely Fine, nearly ended them a number of times. However, the four year wait and the apparent trouble the album seems to have caused appears to have been extremely beneficial as Me vs Hero are coming back stronger than ever...

The opening track, I'm Completely Fine, is a foolproof intro which gives foresight into what the next twelve songs consist of. While the track starts off slowly, it builds up creating an array of anticipation that recklessly leads into the rest it the album. I'm Completely Fine steers into Opposites, a song about people who are handed what they have on a plate. The chorus really ingrains this idea as Sam sings 'No one could have picked two other worlds so opposite, you take yours I'll take mine, I know what hard work is'. The chorus, which is incredibly catchy, is also accompanied by a signature Me vs Hero guitar hook and first-rate drums.  

The next track Skin and Bones has all the elements of a flawless pop punk track; fast paced drums, an appealing and memorable chorus and impressive guitar hook. This then leads into track four, Rush for Gold, which has the finest chorus on the album. The verses are a dejected tale of becoming older which is then contrasted against an extremely upbeat chorus, filled with an exceptional hooks and energetic gang vocals.

Virtues is another stand out track from the album. It combines all the best things about Me vs Hero: riffs that are engraved into your memory, vigorous gang vocals, indelible lyrics and a breakdown so good you have the song on repeat all day. Home Alone is only 52 seconds long but in no way is this a debilitating factor; the gang vocals will leave anyone dying to hear this played live. Marks of a Slave is the next track and the place where the lyrics stand out the most. The song states 'we're all born defined by our cultures, set loose to be caught and stripped of our thoughts.Another possession of monsters, worked to the core to feel safe and secure in our walls' conveying the dissatisfaction and pressures within the working world.

Heisenberg is next up, which also has an Interlude - Truth. The song channels the idea of a bad relationship and the lyrics are also flawless and identifiable. The  gang vocals on the chorus will leave it stuck in your head all day. Hang In is a beautiful acoustic song, the kind that has the ability to give you chills all over. The chorus is complimented by awesome harmonies and even here gang vocals can be found. 

Things we Know, is the song most reminiscent of earlier Me vs Hero songs and the easycore roots are evident. The riff is especially gratifying, exalted by a mix of chugs and gang vocals. Next up is These Past Five Years, the last song on the album. The song provides a powerful close, another song that would sound great live.

Overall, I'm Completely Fine is an extremely impressive sophomore album. While it is pop punk at its core, Me vs Hero have returned to their roots and added their signature easycore take to the album. Although it's been a long wait, I'm Completely Fine is totally worth it...

Make sure you pick up a copy on September 1st or preorder here.

Nathan Detroit - Peace Of Mind Review

From Wiltshire in the UK, Nathan Detroit are already on their third release. Peace of Mind, which is released on August 16th, is a mix of catchy choruses, immense riffs and a lyrical advancement throughout which portrays that everyone has the ability to overcome problematic times... 

The opening track,The Way Down, is a delicate intro to the EP. The riff is a gentle inauguration for the next ten minutes of songs about overcoming everyday challenges and coming out as a stronger person. Most of the songs on the EP start off subtly and become energetic and memorable, complimented by remarkable riffs. The gentle openers offer an interesting dynamic to the Peace Of Mind. It adds extra intensity to the EP and helps to disclose the overall message. Way Down is an example of this; while it starts gently, it becomes a hard-hitting, infectious and melodious anthem. The second track, Never Enough is an upbeat, bold track. The tempo increases on the verses and choruses, creating an adventurous pop punk melody. Never Enough conveys that you should never give up and always be yourself, a message that resonates strongly with the listener. 

Similarly to The Way Down,  the third track, I Will Always Be Part Of This World, starts off with a soft and delicate riff. The vocals are powerful and vocalist Jamie’s voice compliments the placid riff with the right balance of power and melody. The harmonies within this section, which although short, add a captivating dynamic to the track. A third of the way through I Will Always Be Part of This world, the track changes and it becomes a punchy, riff-laden composition with a chorus that will leave any listener dying to sing along.

Every Heart is another stand out track about  The lyrics state 'I know there's room in every heart, I know you'll see this one day when you least it expect it'. It displays a message that every one has the right to feel empowered and accomplish something. This is the perfect ending and really enforces the positive message from the EP. 

Overall, the EP is a tremendous assortment of catchy and melodic songs. The lyrical progression also makes the EP stand out; the songs start with 'The Way Down', a song about when daily life becomes too much and ends with Every Heart, a positive message which illustrates that everybody has the ability to make a positive future. As well as this, each track is complimented by a vigorous riff that will make the EP be the center of attention in your record collection. Make sure you pick up a copy of Peace Of Mind on August 11th. 

Trash Boat - Look Alive Review

Trash Boat have only officially been a band since the beginning of 2014 but from listening to Look Alive, you would never have guessed it. As Trash Boat's first musical endeavor, the EP shows no hint of weakness and is an impressive mixture of memorable melodies, youthful affirmations and an abundance of energy; the perfect musical accessory for summer. 
Cluttered Sign is an absorbing opener to the EP. The opening riff is a gentle start but the pace soon picks up and it turns into a compelling track about past experiences affecting us in the present moment.
The second track Boneless is an impressive profusion of youthful energy with a striking chorus. The track talks about past experiences, specifically illness, and how it can make us who we are today (for more information behind the meaning behind the songs click here).
Gnarmalade is the most aggressive song on the EP, with a fast paced beat and raw vocals. The song could easily be a an extra track from Set Your Goal's This will be the Death of Us or Sum 41's Chuck. 
The last track Lock In shows no fault throughout, from the verse to the chorus the song is monumental in every way. The song starts as a melodic outset and becomes an expeditious incursion of energy that provides an infallible close to the album. 
Overall, Trash Boat's EP is an impressive first release, especially as they have officially been a band since the start of the year. If you're a fan of Major League or ROAM this EP is definitely for you. Make sure you pick up a copy on June 23rd or download Boneless for free on Trash Boat's bandcamp.  

Homebound Coming of Age Review

Homebound have spent a year writing the songs which make up their debut EP 'Coming of Age'. The EP consists of songs penned about regret, learning from past experience and just growing up in general. The outcome has resulted in an excellent EP that is an impressive first release from the band.
Valor is a striking start to 'Coming of Age'. Although it's only a minute and a half long, it delivers a bold kick off for the EP. The second track,Turning Point, is an fun and upbeat track with an infectious verse and chorus. The drum beat alone is enough to get you on your feet and sing along.
High Ground is a dynamic mix of energy and vehement vocals. Throughout the whole EP the vocals are strong and vigorous, allowing the listener to really grasp the message of the song and nowhere is this more true than in High Ground, a song about learning from past experience and conflicting interests. 
The fourth track, Clutching Straws, is a return to an old school style. The band admit that the riff after the chorus pays homage to Blink 182 and it definitely suites them. The song is vivacious and buoyant, resulting in an upbeat track about not giving up on something you're passionate about. 
Again, Second Best and No Regret displays ardent vocals, prominent guitar and lively drums. The band state that this is the song they are most proud of and they definitely should be as you'll be singing the lyrics all day. 
Coming of Age, the title track, displays a catchy riff that leaves the song engraved on your memory. The song changes pace throughout and has an impressive build up before the chorus comes storming in. The track conveys a message that most of us can relate to; not knowing where to go in life, living up to expectations and choosing your own path. 
Overall Homebound's concoction of heartfelt lyrics, catchy riffs and dynamic drums makes for a brilliant first release. It's clear the band have put a lot of thought and effort into 'Coming of Age' and if you're a fan of ROAM or Handguns you should definitely pick this up on July 21st.   
Check out the meaning behind Homebound's songs here.

Stanley and the Search - Weightless Review

Los Angeles natives Stanley and the Search are releasing their new album, Weightless, via Take This To Heart Records, on July 15th. The new release is a remastered version of their EP, Weight, with three brand new songs. This is their first release since their self titled album in 2012. Since then, the band have had a line up change and released their EP Weight in-between. 
The opening track Anatomy (listen here) is a heavy power anthem, markedly different from the opening track of their self titled, Clear Skies, and definitely not in a bad way. 
Second track Calendar is one of the stand out tracks of the album, the melodic vocals contrast exceptionally with the heavy riff and pronounced bass. The album then moves on to Dust you off which is a euphonic track that incorporates melodic guitar and vocals. The track is the only time the album slows down and is a charming break in the middle of a compilation of heavyweight songs. Singer, Dominic's vocals change throughout, moving from melodic to aggressive, the kind that gives you the chills.  The next track Leave it returns the album to its heavy standpoint  and is packed with feeling and hot-blooded lyrics. Pinebox is a track in which singer Dominic's aggressive vocals compliment the song, similarly to Dust you off. Punch the clock is a fast paced track, with a killer chorus and possibly the track most reminiscent of their self titled release. Along with Calendar, this is definitely another standout track and if you were to pick any track from the album to listen to, it should undoubtedly be this one.The closing track Sinking Feeling is a powerful close to the album with an assortment of dynamics and sentiment.
Overall, Weightless is a stand out, impressive and well written album. Although very different from their 2012 release, this in way shape or form is a bad thing. The band state in their bio that fans of Citizen, Polar Bear Club and Make Do and Mend will like their music and the album definitely supports this claim; if you're a fan of heavy, aggressive music that has the potential to become melodic and catchy at any moment, this album is definitely for you. Make sure you pick up your copy on July 15th or get your pre-order here.

Old Friends, Loose Ends Review

Looking at this EP you might get the impression that Six Time Champion's EP is something completely different altogether. A scene from a country road does not denote the sound of this EP whatsoever. Six Time Champion's new release Old Friends, Loose Ends is a mixture of heavy guitar and catchy vocals;  kind of like Four Year Strong and the Story So Far in a blender...yes it is that awesome. Listening to it, you will question if it's possible to make a debut EP this good. 

The opening song Cheek to Cheek is undoubtedly the stand out song from the EP which holds a killer melody and chorus with the song's lyrics being honest and authentic. 

Next up is Can I Blame Someone Else Now? which has everything you could ask for in a song: outstanding riffs, fast paced drumming and relatable lyrics.  

The EP slows down with the title track Old Friends, Loose Ends which demonstrates the  vocal ability within the band. Making sure the song doesn't become to poppy, the end of the song is filled with heartfelt gang vocals. Once again the lyrics are sincere and ingenuous. 

Overall the EP is brilliant and it's this which in a way is surprising for a debut EP; it's definitely worth a listen.   

Roam: Head Down Review

Eastbourne's Roam are a firm example of how transcendent British pop punk is becoming. With 'No Common Ground' already under their belts, Head Down is bound to take an indefectible stance with listeners.

The E.P kicks off with 'You never said' (and the quote 'I'm just waiting for a mate'...) which sets the E.P off at a proficient pace. Even though the E.P addresses youthful issues, the lyrics never become futile. Instead they display maturity and sophistication.Sticker Slap is up next.This fast paced track is complimented thoroughly with the vocals and is an illustration of how captivating the E.P is. Nothing in Return becomes slower and tells the story of youthful inadequacy and indifference; a subject that nearly everyone can relate to. The chorus to this track really stands out and is complimented by the gang vocals towards the end of the track. Foresight has the kind of riff that will make you put this track on repeat. Like Nothing in Return, the lyrics convey the feeling of hopelessness and deficiency. Roam recently released a video for the final track of the E.P 'Head Rush'. This track encompasses youthful energy and sums up the EP perfectly. Overall the EP is a profusion of impressive tracks and is a sure sign that Roam will go far.  

Head Down is released 16th November

Listen to Head Rush Here

Game Changer: EP Review

Illinois pop punk band Game Changer recently released their EP Three Years. Packed with youthful energy, this is the kind of EP that will remind you of early pop punk bands such as The Ataris. The intro leads into an EP that is packed with vigorous emotion that will remind any listener of their adolescence. 

Tracks on the EP such as Moving On are perfect examples of the emotional fervor that encapsulate the EP. The track communicates loneliness and 'letting go', something that is relatable to any listener. The vocals seem to compliment this with their raw vehemence.

Things seem to become more elated on the title tack Three Years. The fast pace and catchy lyrics are the perfect blend of early pop punk but with a unique twist.

Overall the EP really is a reminder of youthfulness and adolescence; both in the sense of it's similarity with early pop punk and the truthful lyrics. Also at $2 ( £1.26) the is definitely worth downloading...

Three Years:

Listen/Download Three Years here

Dogs Eating Dogs - Blink 182 REVIEW

'Dogs Eating Dogs' is the kind of EP we'd come to expect from the 'mature' Blink 182. It takes its influence from all the members various side projects; from Angels and Airwaves to +44, whilst still retaining the 'Blink 182 sound'.

The EP's first track starts with a synth-ey instrumental intro before plunging the listener into a fast paced verse by DeLonge, his vocals sounding like his best in some time. This is pushed forward by Travis Barker's crisp hi hat beat and a rumbling Hoppus bassline. The song then soars into a chorus of DeLonge singing "This is the worst damn day of my life". It's catchy, loud and most importantly, heavy. The EP then moves onto the title track, which is another banger. This is the only track on the EP led by Hoppus vocally, and he too impresses. These two songs show and urgency which hasn't been heard since 'Dude Ranch'.

Just when you think that maybe Blink 182 have matured gracefully after their 2011 mid-life crisis album 'Neighbourhoods'you get brought back to reality by the EP's third track 'Disaster', which doesn't exactly excite. The song, minus the please-get-into-it intro,is around two minutes long but feels much longer. Especially with its goofy chorus "What do you fear, my love?/Your soul, it will float like a dove". This embarrassing part of the EP is second only to fourth song 'Boxing Day' which see's Blink attempting to venture into folk territory. It's laughable. It's actually awkward to listen to, with a four chord acoustic guitar progression, unfitting drums and lyrics such as "I'm empty like the day after christmas", you'd expect this in an Xmas no.1 not a Blink 182 song.

The EP finishes with the song 'Pretty Little Girl' which starts pleasantly enough with a DeLonge sung verse which, after the last two songs makes the listener either excited or concerned. The song then goes into another forgettable chorus which atleast features those loveable DeLonge-Hoppus harmonies, before yet another synth driven section. Just when you start wishing the EP would finish gracefully, guest rapper Yelawolf pops up awkwardly with a 35-second rap which does not seem to serve any purpose whatsoever, aside from to confirm that Blink 182 haven't quite figured out the meaning of a 'mature' sound. This EP coupled with 'Neighbourhoods' leaves me with the impression that Blink seem to think 'mature' means 'synth', the synths however are completely unnecessary and out of place most of the time.

All in all, considering the EP was written and recorded in two months, the first two tracks impress hugely. The opening track is head and shoulders above any tracks realesed since their self-titled album in 2003 and should give Blink 182 fans hope that maybe there is still some life left in Blink 182 yet. However, the last three tracks really need to be deleted from Blink 182 history as they do nothing for their legacy.

5/10

James Atherton