Given their knack for a cracking alternative song with relatable lyrics and irresistible tunes, it’s a wonder Best of Enemies aren’t yet a widely recognisable name. Their latest EP ‘Sorry State’, a step forward from their previous, slightly rougher releases, is an absolute winner.
‘Sorry State’s pop melodies and bouncing guitars make for a great opener. Lead singer Sam Christmas’ – yep, we agree it’s a great name – vocals are powerful with a soft vulnerability, ideal for the sort of alternative music you’d be as happy bopping along to at a festival as you would be belting out in a nightclub.
Not quite as instantly catchy but a definite grower as the song progresses, ‘Way Of Life’ could be a great track to cling on to in your darker moments. Singing of “British weather and trains in the morning,” it’s a brilliantly realistic portrayal of the mundanity of everyday life with a soundtrack of rising guitars and irresistible harmonies. Steer clear if you’re offended by swearing though; it’s not one to play for your grandma.
‘Call To Arms’, crashing into racing drums and rhythmic guitars, is an anthem of positivity and hopefulness. The English pop rock influences of Deaf Havana and Lower Than Atlantis are at their most prominent in both the quiet verses and the belting choruses, and the band would easily slot in alongside them – perhaps above them – in a line up.
As if you still weren’t convinced, closer ‘Tired Eyes’ does its best to blow any notions of Best of Enemies as a run of the mill band out of the water. Lifting to an emotive crescendo, it’s a heartfelt song with some pretty damn delightful singalong moments and cements these guys as definite ones to watch for the rest of the year.
KATHRYN BLACK