[Review] Ume Ease Into Rock Stardom With Sunshower EP
The unassuming Sunshower EP from power rock trio Ume is winning hearts over left and right, and we're not here to alter the trend. All the hype and praise received over the past few months is completely warranted. Meet the musicians responsible for the buzz: Lauren Larson (vocals/guitar), Eric Larson (bass) and Jeff Barrera (drums).
Perhaps the most driven and spellbinding piece, "The Conductor" transcends between Larson's anthem-like vocals, peaceful percussive breaks and hell-raising guitar-bass licks. We were pleasantly entertained by the aptly named "Sunshower," which weaves airy "do-do-do-do-do"s with with raunchy bursts of instrumentation. Full of earthy emotion, the song is probably the most sentimental on the track list. Striking duality between fierce and playful, the band does a wonderful job of balancing lightning fast fleeting instrumentals with full-bodied sound. Although, we could have done without the fourth track, "The Means," which seems to be a dreary place holder in betwixt other dazzling works.
Perhaps the most driven and spellbinding piece, "The Conductor" transcends between Larson's anthem-like vocals, peaceful percussive breaks and hell-raising guitar-bass licks. We were pleasantly entertained by the aptly named "Sunshower," which weaves airy "do-do-do-do-do"s with with raunchy bursts of instrumentation. Full of earthy emotion, the song is probably the most sentimental on the track list. Striking duality between fierce and playful, the band does a wonderful job of balancing lightning fast fleeting instrumentals with full-bodied sound. Although, we could have done without the fourth track, "The Means," which seems to be a dreary place holder in betwixt other dazzling works.
Sunshower is in-your-face but not overzealous. Even seasoned rocksters can appreciate the shredding guitar solos sprinkled throughout each heart-twisting song. Suspense builds throughout each piece, and it almost seems the record was recorded from start to finish in one sitting, without need for re-dos. Passive listening is unacceptable for this EP, and the only way to truly appreciate the complexity of it is through multiple listens. With such a flawlessly executed work of art, Ume is one step closer to achieving indie rock super duper fame. However, we're predicting that the best of Ume is yet to come...perhaps when they pop out a full length album.
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