27/Twin Zero
This EP marks the split release from two unlikely bands, Boston quartet 27 and UK based septet Twin Zero. The first two tracks on the EP are offerings from 27. 27 have toured the UK with the likes of Million Dead and Johnny Truant. In fact, as I am sat here typing, it has come to my attention that 27 are touring the UK right now, and are performing various dates until the 15th September.
Essentially this is a remix album, reworked versions and collaborations of existing songs make up the cd. Track one entitled 'Half Life' is a brooding track backed up by soft pianos and soothing, enchanting vocals. 27 sound like a more ambient version of bands like the Kidney Thieves, or Massive Attacks 'Mezzanine' album. The second track on here from 27, 'Downfall of the Upright' is also an example of the gorgeous and mystical work from the band.
The following two tracks are performed courtesy of UK based Twin Zero. A septet that serves up doses of progressive metal, Twin Zero have given us two tracks here, in the form of 'In Sha' Allah' and 'Monolith'. Both of these tracks are rich in acoustic guitars and gravely vocals and it is refreshing to hear a metal band that is able to adapt to other formats.
The final track '0027' is a joint effort between the two bands and I have to say this one is a bit disappointing. The bands work well in their own right, but together on this track, it just never really gets going and is a tad repetitive. This EP is definitely worth a listen though, you get two very different bands for the price of one, and I'm all for value for money.