Really enjoyable music – a refreshing injection of creative originality amidst a style that’s nostalgic and well-grounded. After Eight let unique songwriting shine a distinct light on a timeless approach, with the meandering rock intensity and vulnerability of The Reach.
As an introduction, Dress and a Veil is sensational – a haunting riff, rising passion, a clear switch from verse to hook that’s unorthodox but engaging. The band get the chemistry just right here, the vocalist appearing softly intense as the emotion rises, falls, then euphorically peaks. It’s an anthem, but it’s colourful then dark, and vice-versa – just alternative enough to get you hooked, and this quality proves consistent throughout The Reach EP.
Blinded is sensational again, but in a totally different and structurally impressive, clever way. Then we get the well-placed comfort and calm of an acoustically rooted All By Myself, and After Eight continue to sub-consciously tighten their grip.
From indie folk to alternative rock, this band have so much going for them – hints of Skunk Anansie are countered by dashes of Deftones and even Death Cab, then we get this huge alternative rock opera of sorts, for the distorted and boldly impassioned closer The Medicine You Take.
How to make so much happen within just five original tracks is a secret kept by the most genuine and devoted bands, but After Eight will draw you in closer and closer as these songs aptly Reach out.
Find After Eight on Instagram.
