Band: Straight Lines
Release: Escapology (EP)
Release Date: Out Now
This EP has us scratching our heads here at HTF – it contains only one new song, which makes us wonder who decided it merited its own release?
Aside from the brand new title-track, ‘Escapology’ comprises of ‘Empty Chest’ (lifted directly from their acclaimed full-length ‘Freaks Like Us’), a live recording of ‘Half Gone’, and an acoustic re-working of ‘Ring The Bells’. Given the conspicuous lack of new material, this offering would be more at home if it was saved for their next album, or released as part of a deluxe edition of ‘Freaks Like Us’ – ‘Escapology’ listens more like and extended single than an EP.
Despite the confusing nature of the release, though, there’s plenty to like about it:
The title-track is as good as anything Straight Lines have ever released. It’s a full-rock barrage with a huge chorus that you just won’t be able to get out of your head. The acoustic version of ‘Ring The Bells’ alone almost makes this EP worth shelling out for. The guys have produced a fantastic arrangement, made complete with the addition of some excellent female vocal accompaniment. ‘Empty Chest’ is every bit as good as it was on the full-length (it being the same track and everything) and the ‘Half Gone’ live session is well-performed…but we already knew that these guys have what it takes to deliver live, didn’t we?
Ultimately, ‘Escapology’ doesn’t do a great deal to expand the Straight Lines repertoire. Maybe it shouldn’t have been released, but it’s still a great listen all the same – we can’t wait until they return with a proper record, though!
6/10
Reviewer: Solomon Radley
