For new talent, breaking through the mould of the music biz is now harder than ever. With declarations from many acclaimed stars that British guitar music is lost in the abyss of an insipid wave, it seems that for Lancashire's emerging band LSP, things may be a little belligerent to begin with.
LSP are a progressive emo/post-hardcore band with some shoegaze and experimental influences, and have just released their first Full Length EP titled Waves. Waves features eight diverse tracks that are all extremely appealing to the ear, boasting gorgeous melodies and thrashing choruses alike.
The musicality in the EP's leading track Nori is simply divine - but it is also evident in the vocal deliverance that perhaps the band is trying a little too hard to conform to the whiney stereotypes of the emo genre.
It does beg the question
Is there room in the ever-progressing world of music for another emo/post-hardcore band, and if so, what must they do to make themselves known? How can they bring fresh life into this decaying genre?
In the case of LSP there is a lot of evidence that they are conforming to the stereotypes of their genre - particularly demonstrated by the vocals - which may make it difficult for them to stand out in such a dog eat dog industry. However, the band's new EP Waves is highly commendable for its lovely mixture of slow, thrashing, screamo and guitar led tracks.
For example, the inclusion of female vocals on track Wednesday compliments the EP beautifully. It is reminiscent of A Day To Remember's If It Means A Lot To You with Sierra Kusterbeck. LSP should perhaps consider using their female vocalist more often.
Another commendable spectacle of Waves
This is the seven-minute song June 27th.
It delivers an abundance of emotion and vulnerability via spoken word lyrics, screamo and a delicate guitar accompaniment. The painstaking lyrics are relatable to all those who have had relationship issues - which is pretty much everyone, right? Furthermore, the prologue style track Does It Get Easier? is alluring and very well constructed.
The voices on the track are accompanied with beautiful piano and guitar melodies, really giving a sense of overall professionalism to this EP.
Right now, LSP are in no position to burst in right at the top of the rock charts, but nor are they in the afore mentioned abyss. They are in amazing stead to shine as they have an immense musical talent that is both engaging and captivating.
