Source: PR
After the release of their Movement EP that came free with Metal Hammer Magazine earlier in the year, Idiom have released their Same Old Songs EP, which is the second of a three EP series. The EP has been released as a covermount CD on the issue of Metal Hammer on the 27th May as an exclusive to subscribers of the magazine and issues sold in WHSmith. Same Old Songs is an EP that at least has a lasting effect on you as a listener, whether that be a positive or negative effect; and to be honest, it’s a pretty positive lasting impression for us.
The opening track, “We Live On”, is a prime example of this ‘lasting impression’ effect that the band has. With the title of the song being chanted and cross layered throughout the song, it is obvious that this song has been composed with a live setting in mind. This track displays the bands incredible musical capabilities with both the heavier side and melodic side of rock music. However, the second track, “All I”ve Known” is a better representation of how good this band are at each style as well as the transfer between the two styles. Opening with brutal screams and cleverly transferring quickly into more a more melodic environment; the instrumentation subtly supports this moving from dark and rhythmic riffing to an almost pop-like uplifting style.
Focusing on a lighter approach, middle track “One By One” is a genuine contrast to the rest of the EP with clever instrumentation and smooth, incredibly well performed vocal lines that are just so catchy that you’ll be singing along just a minute into the song. The title track, especially in comparison to the previous track, is a punch in the face of raw musical energy. The song includes guest vocals from Benji Webbe of Skindred as well as Sean Smith from The Blackout.
The result is a track that manages to portray the unique styles of each band that’s been included and it really really works. While still maintaining the style of Idiom that has already been integrated into our heads throughout the EP, it still manages to include the hyper and anthem-like nature that comes with Sean Smith as well as the electronic influence and obvious reggae-esque styled vocals of Benji Webbe (particularly in the breakdown).
The EP as a whole, although at times feels a little bit repetitive, is strong and full of powerful musicianship from all members of the band. Idiom very much fit into an ‘alternative metal’ style but they manage to create a unique and incredible sound within the style that can be immediately related to them; something that does not come by often and definitely deserves praise.
