Reviewed by Tom Whitman

In case you haven't caught up yet, Eben are a fine band from Canterbury who impressed many at Greenbelt this year. "Eben Song" is a song that provides a platform for the band's ethos, both spiritually and musically. It perhaps sums up Ollie Knight's songwriting mantra of exploring sanctification. Cello and ethereal guitars provide a lush backdrop for Knight's soft and soothing vocals, at times almost veiled in a hushed whisper. It is pure and innocent, redeeming and uplifting, yet it harbours a haunting sound that points to the mystery of holiness. The Radiohead-esque guitars at the final build-up suggest that their music is fit for bigger stages. "Brightness" is an extension of their ambient and atmospheric sounds. The loud/quiet pattern is established and the guitars are reminiscent of The Edge yet are set within a more alternative framework to U2's songs. Furious strings usher in the finale, showing that the cello can be utilised for more than a touch of tenderness. After "New Low", "Valance Streets" comes at just the right time and displays the lush production from Tai Azeez, who is normally found lending his production skills to hip-hop records. The piano feels distant and drifting while the violin and backing vocals are immediate. This effect enhances the imagery of the river flowing and the bright castle, transporting us to that place. As the song seeps into the consciousness you could imagine a low fog across the river at midnight. The piano-fronted track is well-placed as the guitar comparisons to the likes of Coldplay, U2 and Radiohead could become rather tedious. Yet that is the only one slight criticism of a band that actually sound nothing like the former bands and are certainly ambitious and capable enough to create a niche for themselves. The final track displays gorgeous harmonies. A truly haunting EP.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.