After the success of their debut Courage (released in early 2014), Fort Hope have returned with its follow-up. A self-titled record that is going to turn heads, batter eardrums and cause an absolute storm live.
‘Crosses (and so we dig)’ delicately begins this EP; a tranquil piano melody is joined by Jon Gaskins soft voice to introduce you to Fort Hope. A ballad this is not however, as the truly powerful verse kicks in – beefy bass lines are accompanied by pummelling drums and theatrical guitar riffs that eradicate any preconceptions you had of this band. Everything about this track is dramatic, Gaskin’s vocal ranging from intense and rough, to high and powerful and it truly opens this release in a tremendous way. With things only getting bigger and better.
‘Sick’ continues the fast-paced drama seen previously, with a slightly poppier edge. There’s no denying that this is the most anthemic track off the EP, as it gradually builds and builds into a mammoth of a chorus. It has more rhythm and more of a melody, as apposed to the pounding beats that introduced the EP and will undoubtedly have crowds chanting back the words live.
‘Tears’ brings things down to a mellower pace, with the piano becoming a little more prominent in creating the melody throughout. It’s a completely different vibe to the others, but there is definitely a little something about it that draws you in. The echoing vocal harmonies add a soulful tone to the bridges and Gaskin’s voice as powerful as ever. It really highlights the capabilities that Fort Hope have and how incredibly talented they are as a unit (particularly Gaskin who writes, plays and produces almost everything within this EP… show off).
The weakest point of the record comes in the form of ‘Listen (I’ve Been Trying)’. This isn’t to say it’s terrible, far from it – however when compared with the intensity and vigour driven throughout the rest of the release, it fails to stand out. Fortunately, leading track ‘Plans’ swiftly picks things back up again. Having already gained them an impressive reputation, adding to the anticipation for the full release, it serves well in flaunting Fort Hope at their best.
The EP kindly comes with two bonus tracks, an acoustic version of ‘Sick’ which shows it in an entirely different light, and then the charming ‘Heart’ – a strictly piano based song, that emphasises the fact that Fort Hope are not just a one trick pony and more a galloping stallion storming towards its hopes and dreams (a theme which lies deep within the EPs lyrics).
This self-titled EP is certainly something very special, and will undoubtedly open many doors for the trio. It’s full of beauty, passion and heart pounding choruses that set Fort Hope apart from many bands of this generation.
TAMSYN WILCE