Devil's Gate Music
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You’re a whole band man, the total package!” Ragged Union are guitarists Dave Preston and Scratch, Brett Lidbury on drums, Mark Williams on bass, and on vocals Andy Milsom, and formed in 2015 with the express reason of making classy, rocking Alternative Country music with soul and twang. Setting the scene for this EP, “Lay To Rest” uses a bass line that will make you want to move your hips and instantly puts a smile on your face. This is a track that you cannot help but want to sing along to. Clever use of layering of sound gives real texture, and lets you know you are going to be in safe hands for the next 20 minutes or so. Vibrant guitars and vocals, with just the right amount of sleaze in them, build to create a track that feels familiar, with beautiful tones and elegant drumming. “Here For You” shows Ragged Union’s ability to diversify their sound. This track has a ballady feel and oozes emotion and longing. The staccato nature of the bass with the swooning lead over is a joy. It reminds me of a warm summer day; gorgeous, and you never want it to end. With cheeky lyrics that genuinely made me laugh loudly, “Days Like These” uses harmonica and pared back guitar during the verses, bringing the resonant, throaty vocals to the fore. You cannot help but be drawn into this infectious track that will have you singing along by the repeat of the chorus. With its changes in tempo, this is a cleverly constructed, perfectly delivered track. With funky bass and clever licks, “Writing’s On The Wall” really highlights the guitars. The conversation moves too and fro between bass and lead, with the vocals and drums adding highlights. I can see this being a real crowd-pleaser live, as the riffs pour out, screaming to be heard. “Another Lover” is a slower track, conveying a real depth of emotion, reinforced by the heart-wrenching tone from the guitar, and vocals that remind me slightly of early Bon Jovi. This is a real power ballad, with the guitar climbing and reaching ever more soulful heights, adding another voice alongside the vocals as the song develops from its initial starkness before moving into the full, rich depth that Ragged Union convey between the five of them. Ragged Union have delivered something for everyone; from the foot-stomping, hip swingers to the emotionally charged and moving. I now need to see them live and experience this energy first hand. ‘Lay My Ghost To Rest’ is available now. For more information, visit their Facebook. Review: Samantha Lamb ]]>
