EP Review: Time Flies

The latest EP from Trepidations follows a rather unusual format in that we have one vocal track which was recorded in a studio, and then three instrumental tracks which were played live which are quite different in approach and sound quality. Having not played any of their music before I must confess, I do not know if these distinctly different approaches are what one would expect from the trio, or whether one of these paths is new to them.

What I can say is that as a reviewer it makes it incredibly difficult as they are so different that it comes across as two different acts altogether! The last three songs sound as if they have been written and practiced as opposed to just the three of them jamming, with the drums keeping them going, a melodic bass, and then a guitar which is often fuzzed and distorted. It is unusual for bands to release songs more than 10 minutes in length, yet here closing number Are They Mine? is more than 14. What is so unusual is that these somewhat experimental rock instrumentals are so very different indeed to the song which opens the EP, Time Flies.

Here we have power pop with punk elements which is far more direct, and the band coming straight at you without a hint of the very different style to come. The harmony “aahs” are sublime, giving us just the right amount of twee and sugar to counteract the heavier attack where the bass is right up front, rich and full (love the slides which provide additional emphasis). It even slows down near the end which provides loads of contrast with the final section. Recorded by Dave Hine, the sound is crisp, vibrant, and so very removed in every way from what is to follow. If this had been a single, without the additional tracks, I would have rated this much higher as it is a blast throughout, but the additional tracks are of a different quality in terms of both recording and the songs themselves. Still, the guys have made this available on Bandcamp for “Name Your Price” so why not give it a try and see which style you prefer?