Band: Blitz Kids
Release: Never Die (EP)
Release Date: 26/11/2012
Blitz Kids have spent the last three years bubbling under the surface in the alternative cauldron, releasing two EPs and the full length, Vagrants & Vagabonds. Despite a range of acclaim for their previous material the releases failed to propel them into the major league. ‘Never Die’ appears as a statement of the band’s intention to rise to the surface; both in terms of the immediate message delivered by the title, and the expanded soundscapes on these six tracks.
This is their initial flirtation with stadium atmospherics – both ‘Warrior’ and the title track-come-lead single ‘Never Die’ capture the explosive nature of the monumental sound. ‘Warrior’ in particular contains one of the most addictive choruses in recent times. These two tracks instil a sense of grandeur which has been lacking in contemporaries since the early career of the likes of Lostprophets or Kids In Glass Houses. Although the sound inherits a danger of ending up clichéd or cheesy the sheer magnitude of the song structure avoids appearing contrived.
The theatrics associated with stadium rock are present but used sparingly. Guitar riffs sit on top of U2-style echo effects, complimenting the outcome by sitting underneath the immensity rather than becoming dominating. Moments such as the theatrical laugh on ‘Wild Hearts’ support the melodramatic nature yet similarly find the equilibrium between substance and gimmick. Even the minute long piano outro on the title track feels appropriate rather than misplaced.
‘Strangers With Memories’ and ‘You’re Dead To Me’ lack the same immediacy as the aforementioned songs, however provide the necessary separation of the sweeping sounds. The opening track is reminiscent of earlier material which falters when directly compared to the likes of ‘Warrior’ – that said an album comprising only expansive sounds is likely to be considered excessive. The more conventional moments help to distinguish the sounds, yet could benefit from being a little more heavy-handed.
Blitz Kids have certainly succeeded in making their mark with ‘Never Die’. When the band venture into stadium territory they sound suitably huge. On the basis of these tracks it would be highly probable to be watching the band blast their songs from huge stages across the globe. The more accustomed numbers may sit slightly uncomfortable against this; however manage to rise above filler territory. Blitz Kids have hinted at their ability to propel out of the alternative cauldron altogether, and their forthcoming full-length may just succeed in doing so.
8/10
Reviewer: Ben Tipple
