Label: Thermal Entertainment

Release Date: January 13, 2017

Rating: 9/10

Reviewed by: Todd "Toddstar" Jolicoeur

EP's seem to be flying left and right as 2017 kicks off, but I am really glad the 6-track offering from Shallow Side hit me.  This southern rock and roll gem points in the right direction for these guys.  Disc opener "We Roll" marries a lot of different sounds and textures, but seems to hit every mark with me.  The guitars are tight, the percussion and drums are spot on and the vocals - both lead and group - fill the track with a wall of sound feel.  "Rebel" is up next and this smoky rocker has a great southern feel to it, drawing immediate comparisons to Black Stone Cherry, but that isn't a bad thing.  The band owns the groove and sound they are playing.  The rhythm section works well with the guitars and vocals creating a rebellious sound that permeates the track and disc.  The Styx cover "Renegade" is a fun take on the original, keeping the vibe of the classic intact while adding the bands southern-tinged feel to the mix.  The guitars have a little more crunch than you might expect, but it gives the song more edge, as do the heavy handed drums.  "Fight Or Flight" is a great song that allows the band to slide into their own skin and deliver another rocker that is filled with a southern vibe while twisting a few modern rock radio riffs and vocals that give the song depth, especially at the bridge.  "Can You Hear Me" sounds different from the first note until the last as the band tackles a heavier groove wrapped around vocals that have been consistent across the other tracks here.  The breakdown at the chorus is cool and brings this song into line with the other tunes on the disc.  This song nicely ties the different songs together in a cool package that well represents the sound and feel of the band.  Disc closer "Start A Fire" is a swampier track than others on the disc, but it works within the scope of the short collection. The vocals on the chorus are strong and lead the charge while the rest of the band puts their stamp on the track.

Tracklisting: We Roll - Rebel - Renegade - Fight Or Flight - Can You Hear Me - Start A Fire

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