EP review: ASHEN REACH, DEADAUDIOSAINTS, GEOFF CARNE

ASHEN REACH The Fear EP [Release date: 22.03.24] www.ashenreach.co.uk

Liverpool-based Ashen Reach released their debut ‘Homecoming’ in late 2020 and since that time have appeared at numerous festivals in the UK including Steelhouse and Planet Rockstock.

The EP is characterised by heavy riffage and a more intricate sound than their debut with inevitable comparisons to the nu-metallers of the early 2000′s but fused with a classic rock sensitivity. There’s still a degree of shouty vocal but this is balanced by some uplifting choruses and a real sense of purpose. ‘The Dark’ in particular. A band to watch out for. ****

DEADAUDIOSAINTS To Whom It May Concern EP www.deadaudiosaints.com
[Release date 01.03.24]

I can’t help thinking that with this new EP there is a much more talented offering waiting to break out held back by poor production.

The opening track ‘Jaded’ is promising but sounds a bit muddy and lacks real impact. This sonic shortcoming continues with ‘Anymore’. Part of the issue is that vocalist Danny is a bit low in the mix and the undoubted bombast is a bit limp.

This Yorkshire trio combine electronica influences and a rock beat propelled by Corey Jones’ bass (a la Nine Inch Nails) and might appeal to those who like the more heavyweight Placebo. They also remind me a little of the later version of electro-rockers Fashion. If they raised their production values they would almost certainly raise their game. This quibble aside, ‘Yourself’ in particular is convincing. ***

GEOFF CARNE & THE RAW ROX BAND River Of Dreams EP www.geoffcarne.com [Release date 26.04.24]

Geoff Carne is one of those reliable blues/rock artists churning out the occasional EP and evidently having a bit of fun. He’s not averse to passing comment either on the state of the world (‘Insanity’) or a younger generation stuck in their bedrooms (‘On Your Feet Boy’) In this, yes, he could be construed as an old fart but he may have a point.

Musically this is a more rocky outing and if overall the EP will score no points for originality it is served up with undoubted passion and is very likeable. ***1/2

Reviews by David Randall

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