Ragweed - Double Chalker EP (Self-Release)

This is made clear by the opening track Mind Bottling which reveals a showcase of commanding drumming, truly powerful bass and frenetic guitar playing. It proves to be a fantastic opener for the EP as a whole, as you quickly become introduced to the heavy, filthy riffs which personify this band. Moving into the second track, Habit, you start to really appreciate the Cobain-esque intensity of the vocal performance. As the track progresses you get a sense of the lead singer’s passion, and it pays off, adding an even greater aggression to the performance.

The next track, New Tricks is undeniably the standout song. The main riff is captivating enough to keep it rooted in your head for hours, and the small gear changes do not hinder the performance, instead giving it greater character. The middle section leading into the finale of the song is perhaps the most memorable, as it gives off an improv-feel, with a playful and catchy bass line encouraging the drums and guitar to tease back into the onslaught of the main riff.

So we then come to the final track on Double Chalker and it is very much more of the same. The drumming performance in Fat Collapse is particularly powerful, and much like the opening track this song really helps emphasise the energy and ability of this band. There is no doubt that as you near the end of the EP, you will probably want to give it another listen, each time you do you discover little intricacies you may have missed first time out, but what is completely clear even after one listen, this is a band that has real potential in the live arena.

The songs on Double Chalker sound like they were fundamentally built to be played live. You may have clicked this link asking “who are this band?”, but do not leave me to tell you everything, go treat your ears to the filthy, scuzzy riffs that is Ragweed.