Moses
Activate The Rhythm EP
With a clear ringing guitar riff, like early U2 or the janglier moments of The Stone Roses early work, Glasgow band Moses’ ‘Activate The Rhythm’ EP quickly kicks into life with the opening track settling into a comfortable danceable rhythm. The instruments feature quite low in the mix, allowing space for the vocals to prowl over the top of the low level noise.
The early vocals of ‘Beats’ have the gruff Glasgow twang of Simple Minds’ Jim Kerr and whilst this isn’t really a compliment nowadays, it should be remembered that their early material was of decent quality. Without being outstanding, there is a consistency to the vocals and there is enough variance in the melodies to catch the listener’s interest.
‘Phobia Rising’ features more of the indie-dance crossover style with a sway along shuffle as opposed to a full on dance shaker. Then again, the mid paced beat has always got the kids twitching and shaking imaginary maracas on the dance floor and this track is definitely in that vein.
There is a bit of menace to this song; it’s darker than the other songs and the riff at the end of the verses is really good, albeit a bit short.
With a song entitled ‘Fac 51’ ( in reference to The Hacienda) Moses are clearly highlighting their influences – the sense of ‘baggy beat’ with a sizeable nod to New Order is evident on the EP’s last song. With the bass line bouncing throughout the intro, the effects and fills give this track with an almost squelchy like vibe throughout the tune and the mid-track guitar lead takes the song away into later Stone Roses territory.
The songs vocals are well paced and are preacher-like, in a way that Richard Ashcroft used to sound before he gave up the drugs and became rubbish. Live, this track is certain to go down a storm and concludes a decent introduction to this new band. With influences set so high, it will be hard for Moses to find their own niche, but they’ve made not a bad EP.
Guest article from Andy R.
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