Reviewed by Graeme Crawford

Melding several rather diverse elements, Portland, Oregon-based quartet RawKSouL just about manage to back up their claim of a totally unique sound. Blending rock, pop, funk and classical influences, they deliver a sound that is not obviously like anyone else. Very much bass and keyboard-led, possibly due to the lack of a permanent guitarist at the time of recording, this gives the songs a funk feel, with some jazzy overtones. The EP is rather one-dimensional and could do with a song going in a different direction. Reading singer Josh Taylor's testimony on their website gives you an idea of how he reached his song ideas, and how deeply personal his lyrics are. At first glance they may appear clichéd and unoriginal, but Taylor and songwriting partner Larry Wardlaw manage to inject a spark of ingenuity. However, they have spent a large amount of time on image, getting a look for the band, individual logos for each member a la Led Zeppelin. There's a thin line between cute and ridiculous, and 12 year old drummer Jared Wardlaw is trying too hard to fit in with his much older bandmates. His drumming is solid though, and you can hear why he is there. There is potential here, and the addition of guitarist Jeff Hamilton will help, but at the moment this is a case of style over substance.

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