Ewian - Good Old Underground

Ewian

Good Old Underground
Timezone Records; 2014

4.1 out of 5 - TOP ALBUM

By Ethan Skelton

Ewian’s sound is intriguing, abrasive, melodic, effected, entrancing, wild and so many more words that it’s better to just hear for yourself. On their album Good Old Underground they latch onto a poignant set of scales and intervals, drawing the tracks to one another like a kindred flame. One could find their place in this musical journey wherever the needle landed. This album plays with distinction as well as a sense of familiarity within itself – not an easy task when writing an album. As a whole, it makes some very strong statements and establishes a trademark sound. The initial few stuck with me the most, namely the first two.

“My Dear Dead Memory” is an alluring and dreary rocker that emits alternative grandeur. The guitar line is intense and intimate while the drums hammer down with big strokes and crashing cymbals. The half time feel is used with perfect emphasis, deep and so warranted. It feels like a warning, but for what? Tension runs throughout, and never fully releases even as the closing seconds pound into your ear. The vocals whisper as if to taunt in the face of chaos. Riding right on the last note of its predecessor is a second installment of emotive rock fueled by passionate melodies and hard hitting percussion. 

Ewian and company makes some great choices on the guitar tone and effects here. As the chorus makes its rounds we hear the neck ring out in shrill yet beautiful registers, writhing in a digital stranglehold that hits the ear like a sharp pang and a warm thought. The lyrics are striking and poised on moments of silence for heightened impact. “Good old underground, shouldn’t have killed the stars.” Poetry is hiding right under a loud sheath of sound so listen closely.

Skipping ahead a little brings us to “We Are Not Afraid To Die.” It starts out in typical fashion with powerful drums and loud, wide guitar, but this time it’s joined by Ewian’s upper voice and it becomes almost like a choir in the way he relates sonically to the guitar wash. He sings in repetition, “This is not the end.” I sure hope it isn’t. Good Old Underground is a fresh batch of infused rock that will last beyond the usual shelf life.

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