Review; Suspects - "Recovery" EP

Photo credit; Kana Waiwaiku

"Recovery" is the debut EP from Essex punk duo Suspects, out now on Cool Thing Records. The release consists of three already released singles, and a brand new offering in the form of the title track.

Opening track "Recovery" begins with atmospheric guitars and melodic vocals, every note draped in airy reverb, before driving drums and distortion pave way for more aggressive vocals. The punk energy that has become a signature feature in Suspects' music is ingrained, but a stadium rock sound comes into play too, which combine effortlessly to give life to a huge, inimitable track.

"Anaphylactic Shock" is another track full of punk spirit, the 1 minute 14 long song an explosive fireball from the get-go. Heavier instrumentation and raw vocals carry the track, along with a catchy hook that

is delivered in such an "in your face" manner that you can't help but want to shout the words back. It's the kind of track that would get a crowd pumped up and moving - a great example of how to write music that will translate well live.

The duo take things to slightly more grungy territory on third track "Innocence". The pace is taken down a notch, but the song is still just as powerful as the others, crashing drums and crunchy guitars driving the track. "Innocence" is another example of vocalist Thomas Prescott's ability to write vocal lines that are memorable and compel the listener to sing along with them.

Closing number "Armageddon And Me" picks up the pace again, drawing on that punk sound the two-piece have mastered. With distorted vocals and bruising guitars, the track is a vehement, unstoppable force. In the bridge, the vocals make way for an immense guitar riff, concluding the EP with a electrifying bang.

"Recovery" is a fantastic fusion of alternative genres, blending elements of punk, grunge and hard rock to create something brilliant. Suspects have honed their sound and demonstrated it masterfully in just four exhilarating tracks that are a taster of what's to come.

Listen to "Recovery" EP here

Words by Alex Vickers