Reviews: Split with Rydell and Hot Water Music
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Collective
First up on the pile is this 7'. I'm shocked because Ignition (Engineer) have somehow managed to put this out for a very reasonable price (I paid a quid for it). Sure its only two tracks (one by each band) but a full colour, glossy gatefold sleeve as well?!? And when the two bands in question are of such a high caliber?its pretty much the all round perfect package. Rydell are from the UK and have a penchant for emo-rock in the vain of bands like Chamberlain.
I appologise if thats the third review in a row that we mention Rydell and Chamberlain in the same sentence but I'll be the first to admit that my knowledge of emo-rock is limited and the two bands do sound similar. 'Try Seventeen' is driving and powerful, a myriad blur of guitars and passionate vocals. Its compares very favourably with other tracks I've heard from this band. Hot Water Music are from across the other side of the pond and contribute 'Just Don't Say You Lost It'. Infectious drums and gruff vocals ahoy.
They strike me as a hardcore band where the rest of the band have been replaced with, say a group of emo minded musicians, except no one told the lead singer and he still believes that his band is a hardcore band, only playing a little more slowly. While Rydell steal the show with this 7' I'm really looking forward to hearing some more HWM.
Heartattack
Melodic and Rockin - HotWaterMusic and Rydell each offer up one tune. HWM are what you'd expect from a melodic high energy band that still maintains some edge in their sound. I assume most have heard of their countless releases by now. Rydell are less edgy with a sort of moody back-woods feel to the vocal delivery. In a vague way they remind me a bit of Lungfish, though this is the only Rydell song i've heard so it's hard to make a comparison.
Suspect Device
This is apparently on it's 6th repress and I can see why, it's a danged great single to be sure. Just one track each from each band but both are quality songs. The HWM track is "just don't say you lost it" from the "forever and counting" album . A flaming great song I"m sure you"ll agree and sounding nice and rough and ready on here. Rydell do 'try seventeen", a real strong song in their usual post rocking style. And with a lovely looking sleeve and gorgeous clear vinyl I"m digging this mother !
