Campfires – ‘Campfires’

When pop-rockers Autumn In Disguise called it a day, the pop-rock community lost an absolute gem; the Aberdeen five-piece has been an incredible asset to both their local and national music scene, notching up performances at Hevy Fest and Sonisphere, as well as constantly touring and releasing a belter mini-album in the form of ‘What Makes Life Better’.

Thankfully, Mike Hendo, James Forbes, and Stephen Napier of Autumn In Disguise came back together to form pop-punk quintet Campfires. Rounded off by Craig Donald and Yogi McGregor, these guys have spent the last couple of months honing their sound and creating a huge EP, produced by Romesh Dodangoda. They kick off with their massive single ‘Same Streets’; lyrics such as “We always walk through the same damn streets/And sing along to the same old songs” are upbeat yet emotive, and kick off this release in style.

‘The Hardest Part’ comes with melodic hooks and a ridiculously catchy chorus that’ll get fans singing along in no time, while ‘Pure Gold’ is a bundle of crazy energy, released through their slick and tight riffs. Mike’s vocals are massive and commanding; you can’t help but give this release your full attention whilst listening, thanks to his charisma. The catchy yet sombre ‘Like a Cancer’ ends this short EP with a blast of blistering energy.

The EP also comes with a bonus instrumental track but it’s really not needed, especially as it’s been placed at the end – it feels like it’s been tacked on in haste, and the first four tracks have given listeners a great taste of just how talented and capable this band is. Campfires have created an incredibly strong release and, throughout the course of this debut EP, it’s clear that this lot are in it for the long haul, creating timeless, energetic tracks that’ll have people singing along in no time whatsoever.

JESS TAGLIANI