I like to think of myself as a fan of Straight Lines that has (sort of) been there from the beginning. Ever since I listened to their first album, Persistence in this Game, I've been a fan and a supporter. I loved their original sound and how they were unlike any other rising South Wales alternative band. Since then, they've grown hugely, creating their 2012 follow-up album Freaks Like Us which developed it's sound from the debut album. Their new EP reflect is a major transformation from these past albums and it's likable new sound foreshadows the bands potential future in the rock music scene.
Immediately when the first track, Reflect kicks in, we are able to recognise this movement of sound. The song is significantly heavier than previous material, sort of Biffy Clyro-esque and the only thing from the past that has been brought back with this new sound is singer, Thomas Jenkins' unique voice. The change of texture in the middle of the track is something that is new for Straight Lines and this powerful introduction to an album is unforgettable.
Track number two, No Words of Widsom, released a few weeks ago was the first teaser into this EP. In a sense, it was the best choice of song to be released. Individually, this song is not as impressive as the others but still good nonetheless. It is the perfect illustration of 'more to come' as it does not reveal the best of the bands ability but still allows fans to be taken by surprise.
Hole In The Sky appears to emulate a few of the typical Straight Lines characteristics with it's quirky changes, individual guitar sequences and punchy chords. Whilst these elements may have stayed the same, the rhythm and the time sequences in the song are constantly changing, highlighting this new unpredictability in the bands sound.
The closest sounding track to their previous material is Swim Up River which is a lot less forceful and thinner in terms of sound. Placing this song on the EP indicates the extent to which the band have matured, yet in some way are still able to represent their past. This is even emphasized through the lyrics "things haven't changed even though we have grown up". The idiosyncratic, country-style, almost interruption is nonconforming to their style and really displays creative integrity.
On the other hand, Praise Me, Praise You is the most different sounding song. Not only does it distance itself away from the old sound, it also distances itself away from the rest of the EP. The beginning is haunting with its slower approach and muted vocal screams but this quick transforms sound and the closing track almost reflects a revolution in terms of their music.
Something I must do is commend Straight Lines for following through with this change and moving out of their comfort zone after the departure of their guitarist, James Pugh, by writing songs completely different from previously, as well as successfully pulling it off. The EP is filled with innovation, diversity and riffs and I cannot wait to see what they have in store next. Reflect is a truly fantastic listen.
Rocksound are currently streaming the EP here.
Have you heard the EP yet? What do you think of it?
love,
to find out more about straight lines, follow them on twitter @straight_lines and visit their facebook page here.
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