OneState - Migratory Patterns
Whilst the DIY ethos and attitude may play a prominent part in many punk bands' careers, the self-reliant 'let's do everything ourselves' approach doesn't always make for good music. Of course, there are exceptions, with Minor Threat and The Ramones being two great iconic examples, but sometimes embracing every aspect of the intense ideology just doesn't work.
Unfortunately, Bristol bunch OneState fall into this latter category, with their self-recorded and self-produced debut EP "Migratory Patterns" being a little more miss than hit.
Indeed, the three-track release sees the quartet (guitarist/vocalist Dan Welsh, guitarist Joe Blanch, bassist Lee Arromba and drummer Dan Newton) serve up a rather sloppy slab of alternative rock gone punk.
From the opening notes of 'Latin Square', it is all too evident to hear that this record isn't up to scratch. It is a pretty poor intro, which feels like a bit of a jumble sale with music that doesn't quite fit the vocals.
We awkwardly stumble into 'Scar Song', again following precedent in terms of structure and style. Whilst there is at least an attempt to pick up the pace, on the whole it is similarly lacking the sass and swagger needed to take it to the next level.
We are quickly thrown into closer 'Back To Your Class', the instrumentally-driven tune hints at ska influences, but much like its predecessors, the meagre musical production and proficiency makes for a lacklustre listen.
Not an atrocious EP, but not astounding either... OneState need to sharpen up their sound and studio skills.