Due out this September, the 10th to be exact, is the debut 4 track EP form “Dark Stares”, a four piece hailing from St. Albans, formed in 2011.
The EP in places had glimpses of The Kaiser Chiefs, and Muse, but throughout it is underpinned with a good solid rock foundation. Good Rock, with a good portion of Roll. There are many influences, they themselves cite the influences Queens Of The Stone Age, Led Zeppelin, and The White Stripes. Drawing on these influences, which can be heard on the EP, they have certainly produced something that is not derivative of any them, but a worthy EP to call their own.
“Tell Your Friends” opens with the cracking and the strong sounding “Whisky”, and really tells what the guys can do. They have solid rock sound coupled with some great lyrics. Followed by “Long Live The King”, maintaining the powerful vibe from “Whisky”, with slightly grittier vocals that provide a great feel to the track.
Slowing up on the third track, “We Are Kings Tonight”, showing a mellower side to the band, an added variety. Although, I couldn’t help feel that I had heard this track before, more than likely something similar. The tempo returns with rockier sounding closing tracks, “Invaders”, returning to the opening power shown on “Whisky”. A good end to the EP.
Across the EP there is almost a bluesy feel in places, even indie, but on the whole it stands strong with the “rock” tag. These guys have the potential to be common place names. To date they have supported The Darkness, and Enter Shakiri, whilst building a loyal fanbase along the way. Which makes me wish I had more to listen to than the four tracks on the EP. I have not seen them live, but I can only assume that they have more material, and I want to hear it!
Bring on the album!
Track Listing
Whisky
Long Live The King
We Are Kings Tonight
Invaders
Line Up
Miles Kristian Howell Vocals/Guitar
Taylor Howell Drums
Harry Collins Lead Guitar
Brett Harland Howell Bass
Links
http://www.DarkStares.com
http://www.facebook.com/DarkStares
http://www.youtube.com/DarkStares
http://www.myspace.com/DarkStares
http://www.soundcloud.com/DarkStares
http://www.twitter.com/Dark_Stares
Words by Jon.
