Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

One day the band Steve woke up and realised it was ages since they'd released a CD. So at the end of 1999 when they were in the studio they realised their demos were so good, the songs would make a great limited edition CD and so here we are! The bands judgement was correct. From the edgy rock of their last EP, the band have grown in passion and spread their wings musically, incorporating some technological whistles and bells without losing the bite that makes their music so special. The opening "Hope & Glory" is packed with the same edge that made their debut so stunning and "Falling Down" which is built around a loop and an insistent guitar figure whilst Neil Wilson sounds in fine form as he stretches his voice passionately. The very catchy "Zealous Core" has a touch of the Delirious? fave chord progression in the chorus but isn't harmed by comparisons as the band are propelled by a strong rhythm section and some excellent guitar work. The final cut is "Fine" which has a lighter texture to the rest of the EP with acoustic guitars and plenty of ambience and another fine vocal performance. Don't be put off by the fact that these are demos, just listen to it and dream about how cool this band will sound when they have a decent budget behind them!

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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