‘…a playful yet surprisingly thoughtful collection of songs, indicating that BROTHER have plenty of substance behind the aesthetic…’
Hailing from Wigan, blues rock five-piece BROTHER have been working hard at honing their craft for over three years now, having dropped their debut single back in 2022. With a solid live reputation and plenty of radio airplay under their belts, this year has seen them taking the next big step with the release of their debut EP.
Pulling influence from the rock and roll sounds of the late 60’s and early 70’s, ‘Going Home’ offers a surprisingly dreamy, nostalgia-tinged listen that takes the listener from Wigan to the open desert roads of America. There is plenty of grit and punch here, but it is how BROTHER manage to conjure a truly cinematic sound that makes it such a compelling EP to listen to.
A brief intro track opens the way for the spirited ‘Set Me Free’, with its wonderfully dreamy and atmospheric take on heartland rock making for a gorgeous introductory statement. Cinematic instrumentation collides with sumptuous yet strident vocals in an anthem for seeking release. ‘Melanie’ offers a change in lead vocalist, with a greater focus on weaving infectious yet understated melodies that effortlessly hook you in.
The punchier moments such as ‘Everything You Got’, however, is where the band truly shines, as they unleash the full force of their rock’n’roll spirit. Gritty riffs dance atop of immense grooves, whilst dual vocals deliver a ferocious performance that could have been crafted by your favourite hard rock legends from the 70’s.
Things come to a tender and surprisingly beautiful close with ‘2AM’, which sees the thunderous rock swapped out for gentler acoustics and keys. Despite being a softer sonic experience, none of the band’s punch or energy has been lost, with the dying moment of the EP sounding just as compelling as when they’re shredding up a storm.
What BROTHER offers on this EP is certain to appeal to both those looking for rock music with some classic devil horns spirit, and those seeking something that will transport them far away from the dreary grey shores of the UK. It’s a playful yet surprisingly thoughtful collection of songs, indicating that BROTHER have plenty of substance behind the aesthetic.
RATING: 76/100 – Mostly Very Good
For Fans Of: Greta Van Fleet, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Clutch, Fleetwood Mac
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