Heytesburg perform music which my iTunes wonderfully characterises as Darkwave. Which is clearly one of the best genre names I have come across; it to some extent also serves as a great definition of the band’s sound. Their music is dark, brooding and multi-layered. There are elements of psychedelia and industrial rock drifting through their collective sound. Though by incorporating sounds not typically found in rock music or indeed western music, in From the River I Come, To the Desert I Go the band have managed to create an EP which is both sophisticated and a joy to listen to. Not too bad for a debut release.
‘From The River I Come’ is a pitch perfect opener; immediately creating this palpable ambience. Though less than two minutes long, it has a lasting impact on the listener, with the repetitive tribal drum beat becoming engrained in the mind. ‘The Watcher’ is a song which is both brooding and beautiful. What stands out for me on this particular track is the vocal work which is superb. There is the understated main vocal and then working alongside that is an almost choral vocal which embues the track with an almost mystic quality. These two vocals also contribute to the overall atmosphere of the work, adding a subtle hint of light to the brooding darkness. Instrumentally it is also incredibly strong, with the band showing their virtuosity, melding Eastern instruments with intricate guitar work – creating a song which builds and builds before reaching a satisfying peak.
‘To Where David Walks’ also highlights the band’s ability to integrate other musical styles into their work. The sitar is featured heavily throughout the track, reiterating the Eastern and mystical theme of the collection, but also ensuring that the collection does not come across as overly similar, bringing a touch of lightness and delicateness.
Penultimate track ‘Once Were Kings’ brings a heavier sound to the occasion, but never feels totally overpowering. Rather, it seems perfectly natural, and really serves to highlight the dexterity of drummer Palmer. It also highlights the range of vocalist Nicholas Gardiner who moves from whisper to roar with apparent ease.
And then too soon we come to the end. ‘To The Desert I Go’ closes the album in much the same way it opened. It’s atmospheric and brooding, with the instrumentation and the throat singing signalling an end to the musical journey.
Overall I found this to be a truly magnificent collection of songs, which whilst working incredibly well as a cohesive piece, would not suffer too greatly if they were heard separately. That being said you would miss out on the experience and the atmosphere. The EP does what any good EP should do, it leaves you hungering for more; so here’s hoping the wait’s not too long.
8.5/10
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