Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Fundamentally a hard core album that unleashes a powerful blast of angst and pain, anger and frustration and explores some of life's more difficult struggles. East West's self-financed debut (bassist Tedu's life savings paid for the recording!) shows that they push the boundaries of that genre, adding a flash of musical genius that transcends the unending scream and thud so often associated with this style. From the gutsy howl and grind of "Kewl To Kill", "Attack" and "Tranquilviolence" through to the lighter shades of "Queen Of Hearts" and "Glory" which both have a more U2 influence to them. East West (not to be confused with the CCM duo East To West) are a class act. 'Rachel's Silence' sees the band pitching their music at the mainstream and this is a good calling card to support their round of club gigs and support slots. This album is something special if only for the melody they match with harder sounds. "Georgia, Thanks For The Sunflower" demonstrates their ability to make enigmatic music in an alternative vein. "Mother's Day" even employs plenty of piano and is very reminiscent of U2's "Sunday Bloody Sunday" and in this case, that's no bad thing. Overall the band should be proud of this debut as it's a solid foundation and judging by the sneak preview I've heard of their next project, it's worth getting in on the act as fast as possible. This band are going places!

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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