Review by Shannon Shumaker
Folk-punk seven piece, Steady Hands have perfectly executed their new EP, Tropical Depression. With honest lyricism, raw vocals and incredible instrumentation that suits every mood, Tropical Depression is the perfect mix of pretty and gritty – exactly as the EP’s title suggests.
Kicking off Tropical Depression is the album’s title track, which opens with soothing, pretty guitar work before crisp and clean vocals come in. Almost immediately, it becomes apparent that the lyricism and vocals are one of this EP’s high points. The lyricism on the title track is brutally honest and real, and paired with raw vocals, it’s hard not to feel at least a little connected to it. And “Tropical Depression” just seems to get better and better as it progresses. Before long, the full band kicks in, and coupled with flawless vocal harmonies, what starts out as simple guitar and vocals explodes into this bright, yet brutally honest and real title track – a perfect mix of folk and punk.
Following incredible opener “Tropical Depression” is “Grace,” which is a little darker and a little faster than the song before it. Again, this song is the perfect mix of folk and punk, with vocals verging on aggressive at times while the chorus and instrumentation is catchy and melodic. The full band really shines on this track, from the multiple vocal parts, tempo and key changes, intricate drumming and even a pretty keyboard part. There are so many different moods and levels to “Grace” that you almost feel exhausted by the time it comes to an end, and as if Steady Hands can read your mind, they then transition into a slower track with “Won’t Let You” to give you some room to breathe.
By the time this third song comes in, it becomes apparent that Steady Hands are capable of everything. From fast paced punk sounding tracks, to catchy folky melodies, to even a ballad, this EP really does have a little bit of everything. The band definitely does slow things down with “Won’t Let You,” (which feels very reminiscent of The Avett Brothers) and the following final track, “You Don’t Know.”
Steady Hands tackle an entire emotional and musical spectrum with these four songs and they pull it off flawlessly. From upbeat, brutally honest yet catchy tracks, to darker moods, to slower, more emotional ballads, Tropical Depression is emotional, raw and very real.
Rating: 5/5
Listen to “Tropical Depression”
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