We have three awesome new EPs to look at from this week. Let’s dive right in!
Haunter: Sex in Hell
Self-described as “vampiric dark-wave metal”, the Wisconsin band put out their third EP on Friday. Their description is very apt, as it fits all three of these tracks perfectly! It’s unique, interesting gothic music that draws clear inspiration from everything from Motionless in White to Marilyn Manson to Sisters of Mercy. All three songs are awesome, too! The screams in particular are awesome, but the almost set-up for all of them make them even better! I love the opener building into the INK-like heaviness, the plodding menace of ‘Tongues of Flame’ and the truly epic closer, which is definitely my favourite song on the release. It certainly isn’t going to be for everyone, but if you’re into any of the artists or styles I mentioned above, I’d definitely recommend checking this out! It’s an easy 8/10!
Ephemera: For Those Afraid to Die
This British metallic hardcore band got the legendary Jesse Leach on this thing. That alone should show how awesome the EP is! The fact that the music is also awesome should demonstrate that even more, too! I’m usually a bit picky with hardcore too, so the fact that I really enjoyed this should also speak volumes of its quality. Of course the Jesse-featuring ‘Heaven’ is the highlight, but the other three tracks (and awesome intro) are great too! Much like above, it isn’t for everyone, but if you like the lighter, slightly more punk-infused side of hardcore music, this is certainly one to check out! It’s heavy, dirty and a lot of fun. I need to be in a pit for all of this… like yesterday… 7.5/10
Graham Barham: OIL MONEY
The rising star of pop/bro country is back with his band new EP, and it’s exactly what you’d expect from someone in this genre, tbh. It’s pretty standard for the sound. It’s fine, and while I’ve definitely heard better stuff released in the style, it’s certainly not a bad release. ‘WHISKEY WHISKEY’ was okay, as was ‘SOMETHING TO CHASE’ and ‘YOU WON’T LET ME STAY’. None of it is bad, but it does all kinda blur together for me. If you’re a fan of the modern pop-country sound akin to Redferrin or Russel Dickerson, this is definitely worth checking out. As I said, it certainly isn’t bad, but it’s not really my thing. 5.5/10