Album Review: Chickenhawk - A. Or Not? EP

Leeds band Chikenhawk new EP, the oddly titled 'A. Or Not?' is 3 songs of favourable experimental rock. 'I Hate This, Do You Like It?' starts off with a crazy guitar riff that leads into a fast-paced rock affair. On first listen it doesn't sound anything unoriginal but underneath the bands experimental side comes out, as they combine a metal structure with a progressive side.

'Son of Cern' follows suit and shows the bands messy, angry side with drums that hit with full force and guitars that dominate throughout. Add to this a strange yet effective electronic part towards, add to the bands performance and overall impression of the EP.

'NASA vs ESA' has somewhat grungy guitars and on the whole sounds messy but strangely it works. As it progresses the guitars spiral into complete chaos, as Chickenhawk show hint at their hardcore side but keep their experimental side; backing vocals that sound like they're from little girls come out of nowhere.

You have to give it to Chickenhawk for stepping out the box and being, to an extent, being unpredictable. 'A. Or Not? EP' takes a few listens to get use to. The band at first sound all over the place, but after awhile you become familiar with their style of prog-metal. It is structured but keeps hold of it's hectic spine, think Rolo Tomassi but without the soft female parts.

3.5/5

'A. Or Not? EP' by Chickenhawk is released on Brew Records on 9th September.

Pre-order

Chickenhawk on MySpace.

Sean Reid