Album Review :
Irela - Irela EP
By Eric Pettersson in Reviews | Comments closed
Artist: Irela
Album: Irela EP
Label: None (released independently)
Release Date: November 5, 2010
Reviewer: Eric Pettersson
Tracklisting
- Rush
- The City of
- Medicine
- Security
- Sleeper
- For All We Have
Irela is a four piece out of Cincinnati, Ohio with a self-released debut EP out now. Their brooding alternative rock sound is full of dark energy, powerful riffs and sing-a-long melodies. Generally speaking, Irela is like a less aggressive Anberlin with elements of The Academy Is, Cadet and House of Heroes’ self-titled debut. The bass is thick with open drumming and vocal harmonies that at different points remind me of either Emery or Eisley. The EP often sounds like it could use more production, but it’s a respectable quality for a self-made first release. While I was impressed with the quality of some of the songs, nothing really stands out as a must-hear track of the year. The EP ends on a softer note, bringing a calm to the otherwise edgy release.
Overall: One of the best parts of writing about so many independent bands is that I get to spot talent before it goes anywhere. When I listen to this EP, I can’t help but think that Irela might be one of those bands, that someday I will be able to say, “I listened to them back when…” Yes, Irela is a great band in the making, even if this debut isn’t quite there yet. The result is like Emery’s debut, The Weak’s End. It catches our attention, but it’s up to the next release to keep it.