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[nofuturezine-blog]

Ysgol Sul, Eventide EP, Review.

Evoking the sounds of 80’s twee pop Silhouette is the opening single to Ysgol Sul’s first English Language EP, “Eventide”. Lead by the vocals of Iolo Jones who’s baritone voice immediately struck me upon first listening to Silhouette. This contrast between lighter pop and harsh vocals leaves an uncomfortable combination of noise throughout the song. Although, the consistent surf sounding guitar that works it’s way in and out ‘Silhouette” reminiscent of Kevin Shields work with Loveless.

Moving forward, the second song on the Eventide EP is Promise Me which I found to be almost indistinguishable from Silhouette, making it difficult to comment upon. Perhaps Iolo’s vocals were sounding more angelic which suited the laidback theme of Eventide. Another similarity found was that lyrically Eventide was lacking. Very simple lyrics that went with a simple soundscape. A potential contender for music to suit Made In Chelsea or some other reality tv show.

On Ysgol Sul’s Soundcloud, “Elsewhere” the third track in the Eventide EP had the most listener engagement. Which, gave hope that this would be the song that turned tides, leading me to a treasure trove of quality music. Although, it was disappointed to learn that this was not necessarily the case. Initially, the opening of Elsewhere is a great combination of distinguished bass and guitar laden with whammy bars. But as the song progresses Iolo’s vocals which are more drawn out ultimately weigh the song down. If you’re looking for a song to feel sad too then Elsewhere is the one for you. But, it’s a relatively safe song kept afloat by a more upbeat style of drumming.

The harmonies on this next track, “Dwell” are great. At least the title of this track affirms my comments that Ysgol Sul were creating music that makes you dwell in sadness.

 To draw a close to Eventide is a song called, “Solitude” which again proves to be flowing directly from the aforementioned song, “Dwell” every song from this EP seems to sound similar. Something that perhaps Ysgol Sul were aiming for, in which case, great. But, as a listener I look towards music that is at least distinguishable. Although towards the end of Solitude, Ysgol Sul have gradually built up the song, carefully constructing where to place a fair amount of white noise in amongst the song, before a rhythmic bass begins to emerge from the quiet before fully encroaching the song to lead Solitude into a rather busy finish.

 For a first English Language EP Eventide is alright, it wasn’t necessarily surprising. But, it’s not a poorly produced EP either. Ysgol Sul are still amidst the higher end of Welsh talent.  But, Eventide is not their best work.