‘Elevate’ is the debut EP from Southampton based THE GRACE & DEATH OF US that’s five tracks strong, full of catchy hooks, emotional lyrics and huge choruses. Although sceptical upon first listen, ‘Elevate’ is a fine debut EP that shows a lot of promise for future releases.
Opener ‘Ball & Chain’ kicks off with whole affair with big guitars and relatable lyrics, the rest of the ‘Elevate’ EP follows suit. ‘Closer’ is probably the standout of the EP, with piano based verses moving into one of the biggest choruses heard in a long time. The addition of strings, whilst a cliché in the emo-indie-pop genre, work well within the track; adding to the emotion rather than ruining the track like so many other bands fall prey to doing.
The rest of ‘Elevate’ sees the band keep up with the form found in the first two tracks. Giving the listener a tremendously enjoyable 20 minutes of radio-friendly music.
The Grace & Death of Us have managed to write and record a great debut EP in a sometimes boring, usually laughable genre. With the open and honest content found on ‘Elevate’ expect to find teenage girls swooning over the band soon and expect bigger and better things in the future.
HENRY McCAUGHTRIE