If you strip away the rough production values, Rat Attack‘s newest EP is an absolute scorcher of a record. While it would be easy to dub the Exeter crew a more melodic version of Gallows, there’s a fire in their bellies that is very reminiscent of the energy of Watford’s finest. Sonically Comeback Kid and The Bronx are more likely influences; there’s some solid guitar riffs and some awesome gang vocals too, so while this record is on the short side, it does leave a lasting impression.
And in more ways than one too, for each song is on the lengthy side and that’s something which, while I think the band would be better suited to punchier tracks, doesn’t hinder them at all. The first track stretches to over 5 minutes and the second track is longer than 4, yet each still has an anger and a bite which really stands out. The vocals are angry and aggressive but not overly so, meaning there’s more melody here than you could possibly expect. But that’s a very good thing. I suspect we’ll be hearing plenty more from this band in 2008 – you’d be best served checking them out now…