Reviewed by Paul Gallagher

The second EP from Coventry three-piece Lowdrive is a flawed but promising collection. The band are obviously influenced by melodic rock masters like Foo Fighters and Feeder, but they have quite a way to go before any favourable comparisons can be made to such bands. Opening track “Left To Hide” starts things off well; a straightforward rock song with an insistent groove and catchy chorus, making up for its lack of originality with sheer enthusiasm. Unfortunately the same can’t be said for “Hanging By A Thread” and “Front Of The Line”, both of which chug along inoffensively enough, but don’t leave any lasting impression after a few listens. The EP’s saving grace is “The White Flag”, a lovely slow burning ballad that’s reminiscent of Pearl Jam in their more tender moments. It’s superior to the other songs here in just about every way. Melodically, musically, lyrically and vocally, it’s the song that makes you think Lowdrive could become a band worth listening to. This and the untitled, more worshipful acoustic track that ends the EP highlight Lowdrive’s flair for quieter moments. If they want to become serious contenders they are going to have to work a lot harder to get their rock songs to a similar standard.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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