Lo Pan: In Tensions

Lo Pan is best known for big riffs and powerful grooves. Over the years, the band refined its heavy rock style in ways that made them a relatively classic act. They've also faced a series of lineup changes and even changes in outlook. This EP is one of those changes. For the most part, listeners will find the band's signature qualities. And yet, the music reaches beyond the familiar in ways that will please some and disappoint others. The opening track "Go West" captures the band's current mood best, partly because of the music and lyrics and partly by evoking the myth of the West itself. For well over 100 years, the West stood for growth, change, and opportunity. It also represents yearning. With "Go West," the band seeks something more. Vocalist Jeff Martin explains that "Go West" is "about setting out to accomplish a goal and then having that goal change along the way. And ultimately realizing the new goal was better than what you wanted in the first place." Discovering previously unknown goals: that's what this EP represents. There's a similar vibe on "Long Live the King," particularly in the lyric that suggests the band is looking for "another sound, not another song."

"Go West" and "Long Live the King" were solid tracks. I also enjoyed "Pathfinder" but the EP isn't the band's strongest work. I don't begrudge any band for reaching beyond established patterns but I certainly hope Lo Pan finds what they are looking for in the Western land of milk and honey.

Track Listing:
1. Go West
2. Sink or Swim
3. Long Live the King
4. Alexis
5. Pathfinder

Added: March 30th 2017
Reviewer: Carl Sederholm
Score:
Related Link: Band Facebook Page
Hits: 1253
Language: english

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