Wellington based 3 piece alt rockers Urge Empire have produced a 5 song self-titled EP with a great mix of upbeat high energy rock, where each track has its own character and feel due to clever subtle changes to the arrangements. Every song is full of clear and expressive guitar and vocals from Julian van der Krogt, backed by the solid live sound of Bass and Drums by James Cartwright and Hans Weston.
Here is a small synopsis of each track.
Match in a Hurricane is very melodic with wonderful Weezer sounding vocal harmonies punctuated by great rhythmic variations.
Melancholy Soliloquies (I need to Know Who You Are) is a very expressive grunge track with enthusiastic vocals that accent at the end of each line and really carry the song upwards in vibe.
Gold Asylum is full of guitar that grinds and flourishes with intensity as the song progresses, matched perfectly with intriguing lyrics and Julian’s strong vocals.
Echo the Mantra bounds along to a grinding rock beat with a hint of melodic psychedelia.
Elegance in Subtlety has a great punk U2 sound, think of U2’s 2 Hearts with more grit and urgency!
Overall the energy and live sound that is captured on this EP is superb, and thus it’s a perfect introduction to the band and if you were to take it home after a gig you wouldn’t be let down by any drop in intensity. So keep your ears open and look out for Urge Empire, they won’t let you down.