Hector Bizerk EP The Bell That Never Rang continues the naming theme of their previous EPs, noting objects from the Glasgow coat of arms, and they continue to make tracks that push their sound in new directions.
Opener ‘Skin and Bone’ mixes up Greek mythological references, alongside talk of the referendum and “morons in Smart cars”, and follows a quiet/loud style for the verse-chorus, making for an effective and memorable song.
‘Festival Boy’ is about a gadgee who seems to be living his life in a festival bubble, and ends with a 70s funk sound to it; drummer Audrey Tait flexing her production muscles, with sweet fills and rolls permeating the EP, and are integral to the band’s sound.
‘Rust Cohle’, named after the damaged character from the show True Detective, is darker sounding than the previous tracks, with an Americana guitar riff giving way to sharp synths, while Louie’s couplets are as well thought out as ever, “I only learned to swim because I had bridges to burn”.
Closer ‘Best Man Speech’ opens as if it’s going to be lighter than the previous numbers, but is about infidelity, and the chorus unexpectedly sounds a little like Paulo Nutini, with singing rather than rap, hammering home that they don’t just stick to one.
Too short, as ever, leaving you wanting more, but that’s the trick, isn’t it; one more EP in the series to go, but can’t wait for an album.
Words: Stevie Williams
