By DJ Monk
Every now and again I slip a CD into the death deck here at ÜRHQ and almost immediately get a sense of déjà vu: yes, I’ve heard this before but somehow can’t figure out where or when, or even by whom.
And that, unfortunately, was the exact feeling which washed over me as immediately as the first chords on this debut EP by Edinburgh newbies DMS (the letters are an acronym for Deaf Mute Society, by the way) emerged from the towering speakers in the ÜR inner sanctum.
Comparisons with fellow Scots Biffy Clyro are probably almost inevitable, given the fact that DMS’ sound inhabits more or less the same alt-rock aural territory, but there are also massive nods to the likes of Muse, especially on closer (and recent single) ‘Vain’, which also heavily references 30STM in its dark vibrato. There are also heavy nods to the likes of RHCP, especially in the bass lines on the likes of impressive opener ‘Tight Jeans’.
None of these comparisons are meant to suggest that DMS suffer from anything like this four-track EP’s title, as they still manage to sound fresh and energetic, even if they also struggle, in places, to stand out from the crowd – although John Keenan’s distinctive, accent-less vocals should help in that regard.
- ‘Imposter Syndrome’ is out now. You can get your copy HERE.
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