I Am Giant : 'City Limits' EP
Released: 5th October 2009
Label: Giant Sound Recordings
With their massive sound and irresistible hooks, I Am Giant are fast becoming the name on peoples lips, even before the release of an album. Debut EP City Limits shows just why their stock is rising so rapidly, full of ambition, intricacy and feeling.
Comprised of a plethora of seasoned artists, the band benefits from this wealth of experience with a full sound only born from a wealth of knowledge. Opener, title track and all round stand out “City Limits” flows with determined energy, driven by a rich bass and beautifully crisp guitars. Avoiding the usual pitfall for guitar driven rock, the band strike the perfect balance between aggression and restraint, allowing the uplifting melody to speak for its self. As the track swells at the chorus the guitars get heavier whilst vocalist Ed Martin reaches stunning heights.
The most pleasing thing is that it is by no means the only string to I Am Giant's bow. “Living The Crash” is a restrained, thoughtful track that manages to convey feeling without ramming overpowering guitars down the throat. A deliberate bass line sets off with intent whilst Martin's vocals once again take centre stage. With a versatile tone he whispers over the melody, letting loose at a chorus filled with rushing guitars. Yet an intricate breakdown shows restraint, a clean picked guitar melody offering the perfect contrast.
It is this imposing understanding of instrumentation that ultimately makes City Limits the success it is. “Neon Sunrise” avoids the clichés of more emotive rock tracks with rousing guitars and impassioned vocals without going too far, a none too easy accomplishment. Yet behind the sentiment lies a punch that elevates it from throw away rock to something more substantial. A breakdown beginning with a bright riff turns into a rather dark, whispered affair with only bass for accompaniment, before returning to it's sonorous melody.
Such clever construction is a rarity in rock music and will go a long way to enhancing I Am Giant's reputation still further. For a debut EP, City Limits is a polished, imaginative and thoughtful effort worthy of all the plaudits it is sure to receive.
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Posts: 1
Reply #1 on : Sat June 12, 2010, 20:52:36