Romans – Black Ties EP
Judging by their debut EP 'Black Ties' Birmingham newcomers Romans are definitely a band to keep your eyes and ears on.
From the first track, the infectious as measles 'Something Biblical' to the atmospheric finale 'Drown', Romans display a surprising maturity in their songwriting, with songs that are polished, but with enough grit to hint that they could well be a fiery live band.
Vocalist Tom Sivell has an impressive, almost crooning voice that gives the ep an alt-rock feel whereas Drummer Denny Connolly adds a rough counterpoint with his more generic, punky shouting, which mostly works to the band's advantage, but occasionally comes across as a tad formulaic.
Short and sweet 'Black Ties' may be, but Romans definitely deserve a Gladiator-style Thumbs Up for such a well-crafted and produced debut.