Dire Bloom are one of the latest and exciting musical offerings from Leeds, citing artists such as Brand New, Boston Manor and Moose Blood as influences – which can be picked upon easily during their six track EP, Facade.
The EP begins with the simple but sweet Roots which draws me in, leaving me to expect a slower but more laid back EP. The short track is alluring and mysterious, but sets the tone well for the remainder of the EP.
Blossom picks up the pace, blending impressive but distinctive vocals between singers Felix and Tom – a unique concept that works well. The guitar riff is effortlessly catchy during this track, but both the bass and drum rhythms have their time to shine too. Although the band cite Taking Back Sunday as an influence, I think in this track, at points it even sounds like Adam Lazzara singing himself – bar the accent, of course!
Canvas is another strong track with lyrics that draw me in and demonstrates a variety of different vocal ranges. This track gives me the chance to really listen to the lyrics which I really enjoy, and the abrupt but edgy finish has me sitting up in my seat, drawing me back to reality and ready for the following track.
It transitions nicely to Fletcher, which is infectious and offers some more emo and punk elements. It’s the longest track on the EP, but despite being pretty much in the middle, it holds it’s own and keeps my attention throughout.
Bliss is a personal favourite of mine, giving me the chance to really appreciate the vocals. This track, to me, also takes clear inspiration from Taking Back Sunday and I found myself singing along by the third or fourth listen. The lyrics are moveable but relatable, and when the instrument kicks in at around the halfway mark, the song picks up in pace for the last minute or so to create a well-rounded edgy ballad.
Wither is another one that sees the vocals take centre stage to begin with, but when the rest of the band kicks in, I can’t help but nod along to. It’s in this final track that the most impressive guitar riffs and steady beats from the album are found and ends the EP nicely.
Facade allows me to relive my 17 year old emo years, back when I’d perfect the ideal Myspace pose and post emotional lyrics by Taking Back Sunday in my MSN username.
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