Two songs covered by the other band and then a brand new song each – sounds fun and it certainly is. Infact, I hope this is the start of things to come as it breaks the mould slightly. Moneen and Alexisonfire are decent bands in their own right, but this split goes to show different sides of the band. While both probably get lumped in the post-hardcore bracket, you could argue that they’re at different ends of the scale. And Moneen’s subtleties really make this EP that little bit special, as they breathe new life into the two AF songs that they cover.
Alexisonfire cover ‘Passing Out In America’ and ‘Tonight I’m Going To Wash The Hippy’ and it’s a little odd at first hearing the band so stark – without the incessant screaming the band sound a little naked. The latter song turns out best, but I do tend to prefer the originals. I know that’s usually the case, but in this scenario it’s because the Moneen versions of the Alexisonfire songs are fantastic. ‘Accidents are on Purpose’ is covered with purpose and poise, but it’s ‘Sharks In Danger‘ that is the pick of the four tracks here. The guitar parts, the swooping electronics… it would seem every little part of the song has been cleverly deconstructed and put back together again in their own inimitable style.
The two new songs are also pretty good. Again Kenny’s vocals make Moneen stand out – ‘Bleed and Blister version 2’ is a cracker, but AF aren’t outdone with the visceral ‘Charlie Sheen v Henry Rollins’, which is a perfect example of why the band have done so well in recent months. Releasing this split was a good idea and the end result is an impressive one. Fans of each band will want to pick this up, but it should appeal to many others too.
Vagrant/Hassle
Paul