Three tracks from a promising band? Yes please. Before I get started on the ol' business of the review it's worth noting that Nexus have come a long way since their last CD – the sound is crisper and more coherent and the actual songs are extremely well structured. It's not easy to categorise Nexus because there are so many disparate influences thrown in everywhere, like a few recognisably 'stolen from Jimi' guitar licks and a quite unexpected ska breakdown chucked in for good measure. But at least it keeps things interesting...
Unfortunately opener 'Not Sorry' doesn't start well, sucked into its own self-importance with a needlessly repeated lyric that does the song no favours whatsoever. It's not until the band start coming together for the chorus that Nexus become effective, but then there's a random ska bit – it doesn't gel and while it's a good indication of the musicianship of Nexus it serves very little purpose except to disturb the flow of the track. 'The Best Policy' is much better, and displays the best example of Nexus's obvious writing talents. The composition of the track is genuinely impressive as it is able to move from part to part smoothly without sounding stitched-together, but the fact remains that in terms of the actual song, Nexus remain one step away from being a really powerful band. Even though final track 'Forgive Me' calls to mind certain motifs from REM or even the Smashing Pumpkins it never slips into the highest gear. It seethes with initial promise and sublime guitar work, but the crucial final push never comes. It's a shame because the potential appears to be unrealised but conversely shows that Nexus are definitely moving in the right direction.
It's halfway there, and the hard part is definitely done for Nexus. They just need to show a bit more of a killer instinct in terms of finishing their songs, and to definitely stay away from the needless noodling and introspection. It's obvious that they're extremely talented, but they need to concentrate less on musicality and more on crafting something personal and punchy at the same time. Promising? Yes. Any delivery on that promise? Partially.
Ben
www.nexusband.tk
