Written by: Paul Monkhouse
Band:
Title:
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ARCHERS
Temporary High
Out Now!
First emerging a decade ago, Wisconsin quartet ARCHERS have seen their stock rise considerably as more and more people accept that a merge between metalcore and pop sensibilities can bring a joyful noise, the whole scene having seen a seismic shift that has allowed such cross genre mash-ups to thrive. Originally formed by vocalist Nathanael Pulley and guitarist Ben Koehler, things really coalesced with the addition of rhythm section Grayson Masarosh on drums and bass player/vocalist Oscar Potts, the latter bringing a fresh edge with his funk-fueled larynx. It’s a tightrope to walk when blending disparate elements, one where one slip could spell disaster but given the chemistry here, the vision has remained both strong and true.
For the curious, this fresh EP is a perfect dip of a toe into their world and shows a level of sophistication and class that makes it an easy listen. Throwing things wide, opener Better Off brings a tumultuous avalanche of detuned guitars and vocals that blend clean, soaring edges with something far more guttural. All throughout, muscle and melody remain perfect bedfellows with enough here in the likes of Wide Awake providing a heavy punch alongside huge hooks to keep the listener hitting the repeat button.
…an emotional and triumphant number that sounds so huge it could fill a cathedral
Known for their intelligent and soulful lyrics, the band show their more sensitive side on the lush Safe Now, its glorious arc nothing short of uplifting. Matched with this, closer Crooked Smile is an emotional and triumphant number that sounds so huge it could fill a cathedral. With an enthusiastically received set at Download this year under their belts, there’s no reason why ARCHERS can’t become major players on the scene and the future is looking bright. Whether this EP is a stop gap between albums or a way of introducing a new audience to their charms, the five numbers presented here certainly leave the listener wanting more, the anticipation for even bigger and better things something that’s shared by both the band and their growing legion of fans. This is more than just a temporary high and you get the feeling that after ten years together Archers are only just truly getting started.
ARCHERS are:
Nathanael Pulley – vocals
Ben Koehler – guitars
Oscar Porter – bass
Grayson Mesarosh – drums
Track Listing
- Better Off
- Wide Awake
- Safe Now
- Never Enough
- Crooked Smile