Finding the ‘right’ sound is often a long and arduous process but when it happens, it can transform a band’s songwriting entirely. Instrumentally, Speaking in Italics saunter through this five-track EP with the kind of confidence and quality that would suggest they’ve found their intended destination. ‘Painted Sky’’s ambient, alternative-rock is rich with atmosphere, helped by the crisp production and warm guitar tones. Twinkling lead guitar lines mingle with well-considered chords, all carried by precise drums and as the record progresses, the interplay between the musicians evolves and grows, creating a unique sound that feels accomplished and refined.
This atmospheric backdrop provides ample space and opportunity for the vocals to work their magic, something that genre peers Circa Survive excel at, however this is where cracks start to appear. Singer Kyle Brooks, who also handles guitar duties, has a good voice and pleasant tone, but lacks the interesting melodies and memorable hooks to elevate these songs to the next level. ‘Painted Sky’ is the most effective track, where the vocals demonstrate the strongest verse and pre-chorus of the record, however the chorus passes by without the infectious hooks or punchy melodies that the build-up deserves. ‘Sidelined’ suffers a similar fate, starting brightly with wonderful, ambient instrumentals but when the song needs a burst of vocal inspiration to keep it moving forward, they instead remain at a constant level, leaving the song in a cantering second gear to the end.
The musicians of the band have really hit their stride on this EP, giving ‘Painted Sky’ an accomplished backdrop, however the vocals are still on the journey to find themselves. While Brooks has an excellent tone, he appears to still be refining his style and finding his voice, experimenting with ideas to see which ones work. Musically Speaking in Italics have created a sound that is refined and appealing and once the vocals catch up to that level, this four-piece could have a winning formula.
MARK JOHNSON