A world-beating blend of spiky vocals and classy rock ‘n roll riffs returns for the band’s second release in almost 12 months. The idea of a new EP from the already brilliantly cataclysmic John Coffey is an exciting prospect, add the legendary talents of producer Kurt Ballou and you’ve got yourself a punk rock dream.
Accompanied by a suitably stirring music video, title track ‘No House For Thee’ discusses the appalling suffering of thousands of Syrian refugees. “Stay far away, as there is no house for thee”, the message of love is delivered with such an empathic level of passion. Pace driven and full of colour, the tune itself is one to dance to, the subject matter however is something altogether far more serious.
‘Nails On The Blackboard’ can at times come across a little too Every Time I Die-y, the intro is a dead ringer for the New York band’s fine sound. Of course not as utterly ruthless as the veteran hardcore outfit but still the likeness is impossible to ignore. No complaints here though, overflowing with speed and intensity, the track is a banger. Haunting female vocals paired with echoing guitars give this JC song a personality unlike any other on this EP. Eerie in places, the melody battles with the harsh bellows of singer David Achter de Molen. This battle continues as heavy riffs conclude ‘Needles’.
Ditching the maniacal, ‘Relief’ is an acoustic number. Dramatically changing the pace, it’s played out with considerably less angst than the previous four offerings, chillingly accomplished vocal performances show the versatility of the Dutch band. With barely a drum to be heard, the comforting sound of the acoustic guitar wraps things up with a great sense of finality.
LEW TROTT