By DJ Monk
Having already released two EPs in their eight years together, Kent noiseniks AvaGrace are taking things to the next level of logical progression, with this, their debut full-length – a release which inhabits the same sort of alt-rock territory as the likes of Saosin, Underoath and Dance Gavin Dance but also stamps its own identity with the force of a recalcitrant toddler throwing a tantrum in the sweets aisle.
Right from the off, ‘The Witching Hours’ grabs you by the aural cortexes and doesn’t let go. The first thing that strikes you as opening track ‘Misguided’ unfurls from the speakers is the clarity of the production: it’s precise enough to draw out every subtle nuance of the individual and collective performances, but also warm enough to evoke the passion of the same.
Talking of the band’s performances, there is not a weak element to be found, from the taut percussion of Alby Walbank (who has been replaced by Ashlee Green since the completion of the album) through the complimentary bass of Will Evans and the winding yet cohesive twin guitars of Ben Goodey and Craig Matthews, who bounce and mingle with equal verve and vim, adding in some tasty solos and breakdowns just to be on the safe side. And then there are the superb vocals of Chris Horton, who is possessed of a tremendous range and, more importantly, knows how to use it, easing through his upper and lower registers with the ease of Jonathan Rea around a practice track. Resisting the temptation to ruin proceedings with needless metalcore-style grunts, while not being afraid to add touches of aggression as and when required, Horton adds an extra level of clarity to the sound which draws out the lyrical sensitivities with a level of coherence that many of his contemporaries would do well to study.
Overall, ‘The Witching Hours’ is a polished and professional debut, presenting a collection of songs which display an incredible level of maturity, coupled with a massive degree of imagination in terms of framing, timing. It flows along seamlessly, possessing enough depth to warrant repeated investigation but enough immediacy to attract right from the outset and retain your attention throughout. Well done lads: great effort.
- ‘The Witching Hours’ is released on Friday (30 August).
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