Reviewed by Andrew Wallace

Originally released independently in 2004 shortly before the band folded, this short EP of five songs from the Orange County, California five-piece Stairwell has recently seen the light of day again on the recently revived Screaming Giant label. Produced by Mike Glines, this is typical indie fare and alternative folk-rock with crunchy guitar riffs, distortion and raw, competent vocals. "Pictures In My Head" and "The Love And The War" are mid-paced rockers. "Fires Of My Own" shows a bit more invention with a bit of piano thrown in and speaks of leaving a legacy behind us. "Midnight Traveler" is the heaviest cut and ups the ante both vocally and sonically. Very little stands out here though; perhaps if the band had had a longer shelf-life subsequent releases may have left a bigger impression. In truth, one wonders why this EP was re-released at all.

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