Streetcorner Prophets: The Streetcorner Prophets EP

Based in Philadelphia, this four piece experimental rock band have been grafting away for just over a year now, with this self titled EP being the fruits of their labours. Whilst is fair to suggest that they show some signs of coming up with interesting ideas and challenging themes, it is also apparent that a little more work is required to really make Streetcorner Prophets the finished article.

The likes of the short opening number "Requiem" is an attempt at an atmospheric, if unsettling beginning, however as an invitation to venture further it is more than a little lacklustre. "Nyarlathotep" is an angular, jumpy fusion piece that allows bassist Danni Scally too much freedom, without enough focus. While "The Lyricist" leaves the otherwise impressive Amanda Noce's voice too exposed to make an impact, although considering that the song is about a paraplegic in a wheelchair, maybe that was the intention.

On the up side, the massive clatter and wallop of the almost Rage Against The Machine like thunder of "Darkness" is more convincing and "Dies Irae" has an off-kilter, but mesmerising rhythmical lilt that does suck you into the threatening music. That leaves possibly the most straight ahead track on this EP, with "Searching For Orion" being less about challenging the listener to keep up and more about laying down a memorable guitar line and bass rumble, something Streetcorner Prophets should stick to more often.

Over all this is a mix of highs and lows that fails to hold the imagination in places and has you thoroughly gripped in others, but certainly suggest that Streetcorner Prophets may have the ability to preach convincingly in the future.

Track Listing
1. Requiem
2. Darkness
3. Nyarlathotep
4. The Lyricist
5. Dies Irae
6. Searching For Orion

Added: December 4th 2010
Reviewer: Steven Reid
Score:
Related Link: Streetcorner Prophets MySpace
Hits: 1783
Language: english

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