The Above - There Is A Reason 10" E.P.
- Written by Debbie Sheringham
The press release bravely claims ‘There Is A Reason,’ is a six-pack sampler of all the fab sounds that have made them a cut above other ‘60s-inspired rock and roll enthusiasts’ and that the tracks are ‘performed with the energy and flair to make them 21st-century fresh and exciting’.
Disappointingly, I can only agree with the fact that it has six tracks. I was expecting great things, as Hidden Volume Records are consistently a go-to label having released singles by bands such as the excellent The Missing Souls.
I haven’t been acquainted with this band previously. The overall sound of the E.P. is over-produced. I can’t even contemplate giving it a second listen. Track four ‘You Look Unwell’, is exactly how I feel after I’ve heard the sound of that guitar solo. I very rarely; and don't like to, give negative reviews. The band are obviously very competent musicians, but these six tracks have sadly left me cold.
It’s 60’s influenced beat(les)-pop lite, which (for me) lacks energy, personality and passion. The sickly sweet harmonies don’t do it any favours. The band themselves, at best, even sound bored. Thankfully this E.P. is very forgettable... Release date is the 29th April 2016.