Black Arc kick off their EP at a frantic pace with the dynamic rock of title-track ‘The Coast as Cover’. Their sound certainly packs a punch- a twin guitar assault is accompanied by thunderous drumming and impassioned vocals. ‘Down’ keeps up the intensity with more heavy-duty guitars before breaking for quieter, melodic interludes, harking back to post-hardcore greats Rival Schools. A less frantic pace is established on ‘Burning Times’, which blends crunching riffage and melodic guitar lines to stunning effect.
There’s a decent crop of innovative UK rock acts around at the moment: Hundred Reasons, Hell is for Heroes, Reuben and indeed Scotland’s own Biffy Clyro. On the evidence of this EP, Black Arc should be added to that list very soon. ‘The Coast as Cover’ is an assured debut but perhaps that’s not surprising when you consider the band features ex-members of Fony and Hiding Place. As a fresh, energising blast of UK rock, ‘The Coast as Cover’ is a convincing statement of intent. Let’s hope Black Ark can deliver on its promise.
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