We are introduced to The Alphabox through title track ‘Collecting Stones’, and it must be said that it is not an energetic and warm welcome; it begins with a gritty bass synth and is soon followed by dreamy vocals and intense accompaniment from guitar and further synth.
However, ‘Flash Harry’ conveys a slightly different side to the band, increasing the liveliness with a fast, repetitive musical accompaniment and clearer vocals.
‘Floating In Good Days’ manifests itself clearly into a track about heartbreak and relationships; it has a completely different feel with low electric guitar and prominent, grunge-y drumming.
‘Running Away’ provides a dramatic end to the EP, while continuing the lyrical theme of heartbreak as heartbeat-like drumming pulses accompany the vocals from the beginning and throughout.
Collecting Stones draws comparisons to The Cure and Depeche Mode, however by including tracks such as ‘Floating In Good Days’ we are provided an example of the versatility they could be capable of.
Words: Orla Brady
