Reviewed by Elliot Rose

A year after Dudley'based Gareth's first release, 'Counting Sheep', comes this four-song followup. The opening track "Daily News" bursts from the stereo with a caffeinated drum beat and sloppy guitar lick, the feel-good chord sequences contrasting the somewhat melancholic lyrics, which discuss the depressing headlines and news articles of modern society. "Bury My Head", for me, is the strongest song on the disc, well written melodies, chords and lyrics in a wonderfully positive and catchy tone - although the lack of vocal harmonies akin to the first track did leave me a little disappointed. The tone continues into "Greatest Is Love", which demonstrates a multi-layered keyboard foundation, particularly the rotor organ effects, though the heavier timbre of "Mirror Dimly" brings a more edgy climax to the EP, featuring overdriven electric guitars galore and a more noticeable bass line. Despite the awkward minor 6th chord in the chorus (which sounds almost accidental) the more experimental musical arrangement is pretty effective.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.