Deaf Row ‘The Proving Grounds’

Introducing power trio Deaf Row’s new EP ‘The Proving Grounds’.

Intro – Slow, haunting, progressive intro – consisting of spoken, contemplative lyrics – a unique feature, in itself.

Remember This Day – Heavy riff opening, joined by equally heavy drumming and vocals, demonstrating immediate enthusiasm and a definite warmth.  It’s a nice easy rolling, rocky sound to get into and the catchy beat continues throughout.  Aptly titled, given the memorable quality of this track.  Increasingly uplifting and yes, it’s one I could happily and easily return to.

Defined By Our Enemies – Opening with a steady relaxed rhythm, both the vocals and instrumentals are performed so fluidly and effortlessly; carrying that quality that makes them such an easy, go to listen, that it’s really the overriding feeling.  Full of catchy hooks and holding your attention well.  Nice fade out riff.

Afflicted – A faster pace to this, it’s another uplifter, which is clear right from the start.  Some very well placed and proven solid rocky riffs and it just works.  Though the vocals could just do with bringing up a bit in places, generally, everything gels well and this is one of those very cohesive bands who work intuitively well together.

Abomination – Ooh, now you’ve got to love that intro!  That’s the stuff of memorably classic influences and carries a delicious taste of the ‘old school’.  Just full of really meaty, tasty riffs and smooth, heartfelt, gritty vocals, captivating me completely.  Plentiful masterful drum beats too.  This was a great choice for the closer and it definitely leaves me wanting more.  Sexy riffage?  Check.  Nice hard, heavy drums?  Check.  Decent, sincere, honest metal vocals?  Check.  This definitely wins my vote.

Overall –  A great new spin on vibrant metal with an old school flavour.  Grooves aplenty and laden with all the right ingredients.  One for racing down country lanes in a fast, sexy car.  Or even for anything, really.  Background music, get up and rock out music, frankly this would work every time.  Out now! 

8/10 ********

For fans of new wave metal, with an old school tinge.  Melodic groove, with a bluesy edge.

http://deafrowband.com

http://facebook.com/deafrowband

http://twitter.com/deafrowband

Album Art can be found here: http://www.deafrowband.com/wp-content/uplaods/2015/09/tpgepcoverweb.png