Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

This Staffordshire-based five piece have already been added to the Cross Rhythms playlist and with the burst of enthusiasm captured on this three track EP , it's easy to see why! Like many bands just starting out, the problem with low budget production can be difficult to overcome but Dreamcoat are working from the basis of having catchy songs and in singer Ivan Malin and guitarist Rob Ellis enough talent in key departments to catch the ear. Solidly performed with strong support from the rhythm section, the lyrically diffuse title cut is a blast of chunky rock with one of those hooky choruses that won't leave you alone! "Open The Bag" allows the band to get a little funky and again has a catchy chorus that sticks in the brain. The song also highlights more strong guitar playing. "Been A While" slows the pace a little and suddenly it hits me. There's a touch of the Feargal Sharkey about Ivan's voice (without the vibrato of course!). Again the guitar playing shines through. Overall, this EP is a decent intro to the band who will need to do some work strengthening and keeping their sound fresh. Although Ivan has mastered the skill of the memorable chorus; there's still work to be done in the songwriting as he's a man of few and obscure words which leaves holes in some places. Overall though, I do like this!

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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