Wow. That is basically all I can say about My Awesome Compilation. They are quite possibly the hottest UK band around – and currently very few people know about them. It’s a crime because this Leicester trio are the hottest emo band around – fusing the melodies of Jimmy Eat World with the underground power-pop of Park to sensational effect. MAC’s new EP, the wonderfully emotive ‘Every Souvenir Has A Story’ is a spellbinding slice of perfection. In the space of 25 minutes prepare to be wowed by a band that are going to be absolutely massive.
Punktastic is extremely lucky to not only host MAC’s website, but also to have been able to sponsor their latest tour and to book them for our birthday bash gig. Anyone who as there will know how amazing this band are, so it will be no surprise for you to hear how wonderfully crafted the songs are, along with the attention to detail in the production. For everyone else, hop onto the MAC bus and enjoy the ride. I could go on for hours about how great this record is, but I have to urge you to buy a copy and listen for yourselves. You will not be disappointed at all.
‘Our Lives: The Sequel’ sets the tone from the off, combining some thoughful drumming with the twisting and turning of Darius’ lyrics. The “can we get any help here?” refrain is as desperate as you could possibly hear, outshining just about any emo moment in recent history. With a sound which would fit snugly on the Deep Elm roster (which incidently carries many of MAC’s influences) , My Awesome Compilation have created the perfect sound and identity which suits the band down to a tee. Live favourite ‘Turning Leaves’ carries on in the same vein, with the dual vocals wrapping themselves around the dysfunctional guitars which crunch and crackle their way through, combined with the crashing drums of Andy Driver to create a sonic masterpiece. It’s melodic enough to attract a wide audience, yet intricate enough to attract a loyal underground following – and as a result is sure to pick them up new fans wherever they play.
From the ‘Sounds For Entrances’ EP is the track of the same name, which although slower, oozes emotion. It’s enough to want you to grab on to your boyfriend/girlfriend and give them a big hug. The soundtrack to the sad part of a teen movie, the drums build up into a chorus which kicks off big style with guitars buzzing and chopping, carving out yet another beautiful song. ‘The Miracle Mile’ sounds like Jimmy Eat World from their latest self-titled opus, with a huge melodic undertone running through the distinctive MAC sound. You can’t help but sing and tap along. ‘Giving Up’ carries on the MAC tradition of only writing anthems charged with emotion, and this track has the best chorus here, full of singalong hooks with a jangling guitar riff that comes together as one of the best tracks you will hear this year – it’s simply that good. And not one to let us down, finale ‘My Reason The Skyline‘ chugs along tugging at the heartstrings. A fantastic end to a fantastic EP from a fantastic band.
In a years time if the ‘right’ people hear this record My Awesome Compilation are going to be supporting some of the biggest bands around in some enormodome on the other side of the world. Pissing all over the latest Get Up Kids record, and with more emotion than a box of Kleenex could possibly hold, My Awesome Compilation have an EP which can only lead to world domination. If you love the Deep Elm roster of bands, the poppiness of Jimmy Eat World or just want to hear some fresh and exciting new UK music, get your hands on a copy now – because this is absolutely essential stuff.
Paul.