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EP REVIEW
DOPAMINE "THE TIME IT TAKES TO
1.
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO
Length: 17:28 (min:secs)
Available from:
www.dopaminemusic.com
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This trio of Welshmen from just outside Cardiff came together
three years ago to form Dopamine from
the remains of two local bands. Bringing together a seriously diverse
collection of influences and drawing from a rich and innovative Welsh scene,
they employed the production services of Stuart Richardson (Lost
Prophets' bass player) to help create their debut EP, released on the
promising You And Whose Army Records. Swimming in the same pool as early Lost Prophets, Funeral For A Friend and Finch they present the invigorating enthusiasm of the first, the raw energy of the middle and the captivating allure of the latter encased in confidence with all the edges polished to a shine. They have a magical mix of driving melody competing with an abundance of energy to dominate the plethora of catchy hooks and blissful choruses. It’s the ability to write good rock songs that are heavy enough to have most shaking their head but also position exquisite changes in pace and temperament, using lavish melody to channel credible passion, and which simply demands wider commercial appeal. Kicking off with “Everything You Need To Know About Breaking Hearts” which is one of their older songs and has an anthemic chorus, which is followed by the choppy “Sick Lie Future” brimming full of harsh and inquisitive compassion. “30 Seconds To Choose Your Fate” turns the fervour on and off as if it was a light switch and “Leave Luck To Heaven” hammers home the solid rhythm against arpeggio guitars. Last but definitely not least, “Six Miles South Of Home” is the sweet sound of success, getting all the ingredients spot on in this song - a classic that would be perfect as a featured track (for God’s sake let them make a video for this one!). This EP is an excellent example of slick, smooth and classy melodic rock that’s delivered with purpose and emotion. If they could introduce a little more variety into the song styles - something that should come with writing for an album - they will have things cracked. Dopamine has the feel of a band with something special about them and the feel of a band that have the ability to take it much further - watch this lot as they could go all the way!
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- Rigsby
(3rd November, 2003) |