The EP kicks off with “2021”, a short and somewhat eerie instrumental piece, the synthesizers gradually building up to form what becomes the powerful intro to “Outbreak”. Some intense vocals from Dafydd Richards over a heavy dose of electronica, the Enter Shikari influence very much evident but it’s been done very well, the chorus being a damn catchy sing-along segment if ever there was one, a brilliant start.
“Eye For An Eye” pulls no punches either, almost punk-like in nature, it’s full of angst and determination yet maintaining that key listener appeal, it’s managed to sound brutal without sacrificing any melody or hooks, again incorporating a killer chorus. In some ways it’s a really heavy dance song, borrowing influence from the likes of say, THE PRODIGY.
“Not Coming Home” returns to an early Enter Shikari vibe, lots of keys in use here and truly utilises the term “electronicore” in which CTA have labelled themselves. Some slightly pompous guitar work adding to the drama, it’s a decent track all round, before the twist in the story that is “Solitaire” ends proceedings with an unexpected ballad. It’s such a turn-around in style you really can’t help but feel the EP Is breaking up with you, it’s not a sad song, but it retains a subtle melancholy within it’s easy-on-the-ears soft rock appeal, it’s like something you’d expect from REGGIE AND THE FULL EFFECT. A real lighters in the air job all things considered.
Ultimately, Clear The Auditorium have successfully injected new life into the Welsh unsigned scene, while the sound may not be original, it’s a welcome change and this young band really do deserve your attention if not for their passion alone. They've made the effort to stand out, and credit where credit is due they've released a blinder of an EP here. With more new music coming this May in the form of “The Final Broadcast” EP, you can guarantee this band is going places. [8]
"2021 EP" is available on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/2021-ep/id623356531