Holy Roar Records are on a rather fine run of late. They’re not looking like stopping any time soon with releases like Up River’s ‘Undertow’ either.
Giving stylistic nods to plenty of the more respectable names in modern hardcore, Up River’s debut has all the potential to be one of 2014’s best UK hardcore records and it’ll hopefully be a launchpad for bright things for the band.
Harry Huntington’s strong vocal leads the way on the release, carrying just enough character to set the band apart from a lot of their ilk. Tthe band follow suit, delivering an impeccably tight instrumental performance Across the nine short and sharp tracks. ‘Confide’ and ‘Withdrawal’ are two standout tracks on early listens, but it’s not going to be until we get to see the band live that we can make our minds up overall.
‘Undertow’ is a very exciting record from a promising band here, and it’s essential listening for those keen on the UK hardcore scene. La Dispute are right up there in the band’s influences too, and you get the feeling that Up River could do fantastic things given the right opportunities.
TOM AYLOTT