Review: Years Young - Hiraeth EP

Review: Years Young – Hiraeth EP

With UK rock “making a comeback” in recent years, there is a plethora of fresh bands wanting to get noticed. However, many of them come off as ineffective intimaters of successful acts. With that being said, meet Years Young. Hailing from Lincolnshire, the quartet’s debut offering ‘Hiraeth’ falls somewhere in between promising and (somewhat) predictable.

There is no doubt their sonically-moulded brand of Brit-rock has its positives. Lead-off single ‘Miracles’ is a delicate and stirring offering with a compelling tone and build-up, whilst the production is near and Luke Colclough sounds more comfortable in the lead vocal department.

‘Finding My Feet’ hints at a more dense, rockier sound yet falls into the trap into becoming a faceless slice of UK rock. Whereas ‘The Sign’ allows them to flex lyrical might with the memorable chorus line of “call me Judas one more time,“ whilst the tone neatly ebbs and flows between dynamic, spacious guitars and louder, straight-up rock moments.

‘Paper Machines’ carries on the band’s lighter, atmospheric approach that allows Colclough’s vocals to take centre stage with conviction. The same can be said for ‘Electric’, as the slow build gives way to soaring harmonies and powerful emotional-driven vocals.

The closing track ‘Sleeping Easy’ ends proceedings on a brighter point, with a vibrant chorus and solid instrumentation. However, ultimately it fails to solidify a permanent identity for Years Young, much like this EP in general.

Admittedly, Years Young try to differ from your run-of-the-mill UK rock band. They subtly keep things interesting with a varied approach throughout, but still fail to leave a lasting impression. They have the hooks, yet they’re delivered with a taste of familiarity.

Nevertheless, for a band that is in their infancy, there is potential for Years Young to build off on this promising early effort. Otherwise, they’re going to become just another accessible but forgettable UK band. Only time will tell.

2.5/5