By Daffs https://twitter.com/TwoDaff
After their release of the anthemic debut ‘They Don’t Make these Tunes Anymore’ , The Astras are back with their latest offering, a self-titled EP ‘The Astras’.
Formed in 2021 and hailing from Coventry, the 5 lads have been shaking up the indie world with numerous live shows gaining support slots with The Institutes, Marquis Drive and The Rosadocs, in addition they won Godiva calling on their fourth gig and played the main stage at Godiva calling. The Astras are set to play at Live Wyre festival 27th/28th August 2022.
The band have various influences from The Libertines, The Enemy, The Stone Roses, The Smiths, Arctic Monkeys and many more creating songs that ooze confidence with catchy, melodic riffs, quality vocals and high energy rock n roll.
The EP opens with the explosive, energetic ‘Roll’, full of blistering guitar riffs and pummelling drums from start to finish. It sets of at pace with a punk infused choppy opening riff before exploding into life at a frenetic pace. Its melodic, with an anthemic chorus that hooks. It’s a great opener.
“Punk infused choppy opening riff”
‘So I’m Told’ is upbeat, energetic and fresh, it simply bounces along with a bubbly, jangly lead riff backed up with a really catchy drum beat, a different vibe from ‘Roll’ but just as delightful, a summer floor filler that has you singing along, its refreshing with fun lyrics delivered brilliantly.
“Upbeat, energetic and fresh”
Next up is ‘Call it a Night’ and has a trademark Arctic Monkeys style opening riff, another energy driven track, it has an underlying ominous feel to it, variety seems to be the order of the day with this band, every track has a different vibe thus showcasing their prowess as musicians. Lyrically relatable, something in air, tension a threat and knowing when to call it a night before any trouble starts. It could be any city or town on a Saturday night. A great song.
Another change of pace and vibe next with the sublime ‘In This Field’ . Opening with an acoustic intro infused with a chiming lead riff, for me it has a bit of Stone Roses vibe, the vocals are strong reminiscent of a certain Mr Gallagher yet its softer but has that punch on delivery. It has a glorious solo that just rings and chimes, possibly my favourite track…but it’s hard…
Finally, we are given ‘Blue Haired Queen’…and this is a banger and a great track to close with, opening riffs soar, driving the song forward is a powerful bass line complete with pounding drums. Its explosive, crackling lead riffs, bouncy rhythms and there’s even a few howls. Again, it’s packed with energy, driving guitars, melodies and great vocals “Truly magical, just nonsensical” with a real punk edge this song is going to please audiences everywhere.
“Explosive, crackling lead riffs”
The Astras have produced a fantastic EP here, packed full of energy, passion, spirit and great songs to boot, they have a unique sound. Although their influences are evident, these are subtle, so creating a variety of sounds and vibes that are likely to win many listeners over. I can see these lads going a long way.
