Ah, the teenage years, endless frustration twinned with a feeling of being misunderstood.
It is brave to choose association with a stage of development that brings to mind issues like childishness and not being taken seriously, however, the name is wise when partnered with the clearly emotional tone that Forth embraces.
Taking a peek at the marketing images used for this EP, it is the military side of China they have focussed on as the second part of the band name.
With chaos of the teenage placed next to the regiment of warfare the oxymoronic theme is proving to be ever popular among musicians.
Looking at the word Forth itself there are images of progression and following orders carrying on the already established theme.
The voice of Ged Cartwright is much more pleasant to the ears than many others associated with this genre.
‘Millionmurk’ is rife with emotion and catharsis as the entire band play a vocal part.
Francis Morgan performs with such conviction, not allowing the percussion to fall into the background of the track.
The use of chimes at the beginning of ‘Embrace The Street’ lures you into a false sense of relaxation before the heavy guitar and bass arrive on the scene.
Further group vocals carry on throughout introducing an appreciation of their roots with use of a spoken Scottish accent accompanied with the paired and powerful guitar skills of Barry Topping and Richard Fish.
Bass and drums make a powerful appearance in ‘doesawasphaveaface’, with Simon Watt clearly setting the tone for the track as dark and unrelenting.
Higher pitches in the guitar parts give the impression of hope despite the storm.
The debut “entirely self funded, self recorded and self produced” EP makes this band a relevant addition to the melodic post-hardcore genre.
Words: Dani Cole
