Hyphanated is a name to remember for the future.
The Wrexham quartet is spreading its wings since winning the Battle of the
Bands at the Stiwt Theatre Rhos earlier this year. Now upping their exposure,
they recently turned out at Wrexham’s premier venue Central Station with over
a hundred loyal fans turning out to support their debut.
In the interim period they’ve recorded an impressive five-track CD – The Last
Debut.
Ysgol Morgan Llwyd pupils Ryan Jarvis - drums, Danny Jones - bass, both 15,
and Yale College students Adam Sidor lead guitar and Dion Still rhythm guitar –
lead vocals, both 16, are highly accomplished musicians. They draw their
influences from the American rock scene such as Metallica, and legendary
British super – group Led Zeppelin.
On stage they’re cool customers, taking their music very seriously, which bodes
well for musical progression. Despite some sound problems they handled it like
true professionals and never became distracted. Opening with Broken Soul,
it showed all the hallmarks of sophistication: melody, dynamics and deftness
of touch.
Other highlights from their ten song setlist was a wonderful 21st Century twist
on old standard House Of The Rising Sun. Change Is The Same But
Different was simply awesome, with it’s pseudo military style drumming and
wiry guitars. I Loved You had a great riff, (arguably their best song),
but the aggressive chorus let it down.
However they need to expand their repertoire considerably to make an impact,
as there is a formulaic approach to songwriting which becomes predictable.
Adding colour, killer riffs, sound experimentation and possibly a mini-acoustic
set bringing a greater balance, would pay dividends. This would make them stand
out and be noticed. If they could pool together their strengths, which are many,
they could become a sensation.
Vocally, they can be weak at times, so this area needs some attention, possibly
dropping the occasional chanting for a more subtle approach, with better hooks,
e.g. Lost Vision. Wrapping it up for Christmas, they delivered a storming
version of Slade’s Merry Xmas Everybody for which they received a huge roar.
There is much to admire about these lads, as everything seems to be in place.
As a unit they have a solid rhythm section, allowing Adam Sidor to show his
fantastic digital wizardry.
They impressed me the first time around, and they are without doubt the most
promising youngsters on what is a highly competitive local music scene.
Success will come if they keep working on their songwriting skills. More
importantly they have the right attitude to hit the big time.
Contact Hyphanated on 07774 652627 or
john@ies-limited.co.uk
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Review & concert pics copyright © Elly Roberts, 2004-2010.
