Losing Ground pack a lot into four short tracks. The Kilmarnock foursome’s new EP ‘Old Glory’ embraces elements of punk, folk and melodic pop rock to an intriguing end.
‘Fundamental’ begins with simple rock guitars, before bursting into life with twinkling notes layered over the top. They’re not overtly pushy with their opinions but there’s a mild hint at a call to arms and a political awareness: “our relationship with tabloid press […] a breeding ground for hate.” Throw in some deep, Scottish-accented vocals and it’s a rounded track spanning various genres to a well-executed end.
‘Part II’ again combines those elements of old-fashioned punk and folk. The gritty vocals evoke a feeling of old pubs; singalongs around a warm fire with a cold pint in hand and an arm around a friend. Lead singer Jack’s Scottish lilt sneaks through, leaning towards a local sound. This really is Scotland’s music at its best – exciting and new but holding on to elements of traditionalism.
The old, tuneful punk sound of ‘About Time’ – think The Gaslight Anthem’s Americana – dances along, with a casual, optimistic-yet-realistic tone to the lyrics. “So we raise this last glass to you, to an old friend,” Jack says in a spoken word section that divides the sections of upbeat guitars and melodic choruses.
There’s a camaraderie in each of the songs, each focusing on topics of sticking together and appreciation for the positive things in life. Significantly longer than the other songs on the EP, ‘We Are Not Alone’s message is one to cling on to; one of hope rooted in reality. From the opening drums, through the catchy refrain and brooding crescendo, its conversational tone lends itself to an accessible sound. “We are Losing Ground,” they end with, “but we are not alone.”
It’s a fault of the music industry that bands from Scotland are generally lumped into one overarching category but Losing Ground should have no trouble standing out. A modern punk band with exciting elements thrown in that give them something just a little bit different, they’ve surely got to go somewhere. Don’t make a mistake by missing out – you must give them a listen.
KATHRYN BLACK