This Melbourne-based progressive/alternative rock act has certainly got its own thing going on. When you think of that genre, the powerful but dulcet tones of bands such as Karnivool and Dead Letter Circus come to mind. While Orsome Welles would be far from out of place playing alongside those bands on the same bill, they’d stand out at the same time.
Their sound is just a touch more raw. The guitar sounds, especially, are more real and less heavily produced; some of the riffs are actually quite bluesy at times as well, which adds to this vibe. Some may say this is simply the production, which admittedly isn’t as polished as it could be. However, the intention with this release is obviously to get something out there for Orsome Welles while they work on their debut album.
Ultimately, it’s the quality of songs that matters most, and these guys’ tunes show great promise: groovy, catchy, and progressive without being too obscure or experimental, and with a great feel for dynamics and variation. Some of the tracks on offer here stray almost into thrash metal territory (‘Want You To Know’), while others are quieter and considered (‘Not Me’).
These guys show enormous potential – bring on a full-lengther.
4/5.
Erth News Bulletinis out now through Independent.
