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Featherweight

Not Waving But Drowning EP

Written by: DR on 12/04/2011 17:15:10

After a lull between this and my previous album review, I really should be building up a head of steam for my next half a dozen or so reviews as they are all of 'challenging' albums, to say the least. That is, excluding this review: Featherweight's debut EP (from what I can make out) "Not Waving But Drowning". This is because it's not what you would call a particularly challenging listen, but that's not the point; nor is it to the detriment of the music.

If you listen to (and like) the current crop of indie/alternative bands that draw from 90s emo, bands in the vein of Tigers Jaw and Balance and Composure - especially the latter's emotionally-charged vocals - Featherweight's sound will be instantly familiar to you, and therefore instantly attractive. They're far from copycats though, as from the first moments of opening track "Worlds Crumbling" it becomes apparent Featherweight tread closer to the waters of (pop?) punk. The guitars give off a grungy vibe due to their sluggish-ness, but in title track "Not Waving But Drowning" they experiment more by infusing some more melodic lines in to good effect. The vocals are very impressive, too, as each word is drenched with emotion. From the frail cries of "I know you never saw my heart, but I'm trying!" in "Losing"; to almost-shouted "I'm not waving, I'm drowning!" from the aforementioned title track. There are four tracks on "Not Waving But Drowning", and within that time they manage to comfortably establish their sound, and impose it on the listener.

Currently, Tigers Jaw and Balance and Composure are just so far out in front of every (new) band within their genre, but while listening to "Not Waving But Drowning" you won't be left pining for them - a testament to Featherweight's ability and potential. A highly promising debut, and if the "For The Fans of:" section appeals to you, not one you should be missing.

Download: Losing, Not Waving But Drowning
For The Fans of: Balance and Composure, Daylight, Transit, Polar Bear Club, Tigers Jaw, Crime In Stereo's "The Troubled Stateside"
Listen: Bandcamp

Release Date 16.01.2011
Either/Or Records