Trespassers clearly owe a debt of gratitude to Balance and Composure, as the influence of both ‘Separation’ and ‘The Things We Think We’re Missing’ is stamped all over ‘Rival Glass’ like a heavy footprint.
However, it’s to Trespassers credit that, although ‘Rival Glass’ is far from original, it’s also a bloody enjoyable listen. Robust, powerful and packed with subtle hooks, it’s the sort of EP that leaves you eager for more.
Only 5 songs long, and with a sub 20 minute run time, it’s brief and intense, but gives you enough to get a handle on what the Syracuse NY five-piece are about. ‘Dead End’, featuring Daisyhead’s Michael Roe, is the perfect opening shot, a bluster of duelling vocals and subtle toe-tapping melodies which set up the EP perfectly. ‘Eclipse’ is another similarly charged cut, which showcases Trespassers at their serrated, jagged best.
But, while the directness of the aforementioned tracks showcases Trespassers at their best, they also deliver when they take the subtle approach. ‘Thereafter’ is much more percussive and thoughtful, adding a murky atmosphere to proceedings while ‘Sinking Stone’ sees them break away from the Balance and Composure hero worship sufficiently to add some originality to their sound. It’s not a dramatic departure, but it’s enough to hope Trespassers might follow this route to even greater success on future releases.
3.5/5
‘Rival Glass’ EP by Trespassers is out now on Spartan Records.
Trespassers links: Facebook|Twitter|Bandcamp
Words by Rob Mair (@BobNightMair)
