Cap in Hand

Brighton has always had the reputation of producing some great unique bands over the decades and currently it is no different as new and exciting sounds stir from within the southern coastal town. To the list of impressive artists making some noise down there we can add Cap In Hand who as well as being part could soon be leading the invasion outward. The rock/punk trio have just released their new EP ‘Songs From The Horses Mouth Pt. 2’ upon growing acclaim from their first EP which was Pt 1 to the same title and their live gigs around the UK. Since forming in early 2010 the threesome of singer/songwriter/ guitarist Daryl Roddick, Jake Martin on bass and vocals, and Andrew Whitman drums and vocals, have found a sound that though at times teases reminders of other bands into the mind is distinctly and uniquely theirs.

The EP starts off with ‘Trick Of The Light’ and a twisting and driving guitar over a cool bassline. Great guitar riffs kick in and the combination with the tight drums delivers indie rock/punk at its best. Roddick’s vocals have a slightly frantic and urgent feel to them which suits the music so well. At times he reminds me of TV Smith who frontedThe Adverts and TV Smith’s Explorers and sound wise the latter of these bands too comes to mind. ‘Cat Song’ follows with a cool guitar rift taken from 80’s indie punk and a delicious bassline. There is an indie punk flavour from the 80’s throughout never distinct just a slight taste and most often from the guitar riffs of Roddick. Saying that though Cap In Hand are 2011 heavy with the deep rumbling bass of Martin resonating through every track and especially vibrant on the other two tracks making up the EP ‘Swallowing Swords’ and ‘Slight Of The Hand’. Whitman’s drums drive every track forward and set a pace that forges onwards but is always controlled to every aspect of the songs. The latter of the two tracks is an on rushing train of riffs and energy and fights for the best song on the EP though really everyone is that strong making this a total package of quality.

‘Songs From The Horses Mouth Pt. 2’ is a quartet of songs laden with great riffs, melodies, ideas, and imagination that works from the first note to the last and is refreshing amongst let us be honest generally ordinary and formula music from other artists in the indie punk field. You can do far worse than going and checking them and this release out, and not doing so is far worse. You can buy the EP at http://capinhand.bandcamp.com/ and I suggest whilst there running your ears over Part 1 too for even more aural pleasure.



Rating out of 10
(9)
- review by Pete RingMaster - added 09/04/2011