Band: The Hunger Pact
Release: Cold Woman EP
Release Date: 28/11/13
You could say that EP ‘Cold Woman’ aims to jump into a not so worst-for-wear looking DeLorean, and go back in time to 1985 when the earliest Soundgarden demo was released, as multi-instrumentalist frontman of The Hunger Pact, Ed Rogers becomes synonymous with Chris Cornell, as Reading three-piece open their sophomore EP with ‘Cold Woman’.
Within milliseconds, the introductory riffs are capricious and capturing to the ear. These riffs are what made Soundgarden’s ‘Incessant Mace’ memorable, and ‘Cold Woman’ follows suit as it bows down to the rock legends. The track flows into blues, that provides an elegance hidden behind its rock foundations. This, combined with a moody undertone from vocals, consistent drum rudiment, as well as guitar musicianship typical of Queens of the Stone Age, creates an elusive opening that intrigues.
‘Alright’ follows in a more up-beat manner, and is driven by a contort mechanism of classic rock riffs. Whilst it isn’t as strong as its predecessor, its undeniably honest and raw. The 20 second guitar solo is the track’s true saviour, as the band take a 2013 take on what made rock the genre listeners craved. The song winds down to a chant of ‘Alright’ from Rogers, as the EP takes host to its closer, ‘Alone Again’. It opens with vigorous grimy speed from Ollie Rogers, secondary drummer and brother of frontman Ed, which filters into an ingenious instrumental change with the use of keyboard technique. As the EP ends on one strong riff, the listener is left with a song of compelling lyrics and emotions.
So, to sum it up? ‘Cold Woman’ is a daring EP which sets to converse blues and classic rock together. With a current rock scene that is consumed by hundreds of bands, The Hunger Pact give a unique twist to a classic style that works. Whilst it may not be to everyone’s taste, its certainly food for thought.
7/10
