After a hugely successful 2009 topped off with a coveted support slot with the Answer, Bangor three-piece Bandwagon began 2010 in the studio recording the eagerly anticipated ‘Wasting Time’ EP. The result is a well polished, professional sounding EP of 4 original tracks and, on some copies, a recently recorded bonus track. Having begun life in Thin Lizzy tribute bands Bandwagon have been tarred with an unfair image of generic classic rock. However, as Phil Edgar(guitar/vocals) and Joe McQuillan (bass/vocals) mature and develop their own style has become increasingly evident and it won’t be long before they’re a huge name in the UK rock scene.
From the opening notes of first track ‘Mr Know It All’ the listener’s attention is captured by the sheer aggression of the song. Riffage of the highest standard is prominent throughout and while front-man and lead guitarist Phil Edgar embraces and utilises his influences, it’s clear from the offset that this is no classic rock re-run on the musical equivalent of Dave. The opening track really sets the tone for the rest of the EP with irresistible guitar and vocal hooks galore. It is clear that Bandwagon is a band who can not only rock, but write some great music too.
‘Barbara (Promised Me the World)’ is arguably the highlight of the EP. Despite being a ballad, it’s as hard hitting as the other songs with a chorus of the highest calibre. Showing off a softer side to Edgar’s writing, the song conforms to the classic rock ballad formula but Edgar’s personal stamp on the song, in the form of excellently composed lyrics and a solo Gary Moore would be proud of, leaves the listener in no doubt as to who they're listening to.
‘Goin’ Down’ takes the listener in a totally different direction with a heavier song driven by McQuillan’s bass guitar. Lyrically the song is much darker than the others with Edgar taking on the persona of a captured convict promising to return to his previous life after prison. Again, guitar solos are as impressive as in previous tracks without completely over shadowing the rest of the song. It’s a balance that can be hard to find but as Bandwagon develop their song arrangement improves with every release.
‘Wasting Time’ begins in such a way as to create a false sense of security with delicate guitar and vocals. It’s not long however, before ‘Wasting Time’ comes to life and shatters the serenity with more high class riffs and excellently layered guitar lines. Throughout the EP Edgar’s vocals are personal and honest, allowing the listener to become involved almost emotionally in the music and ensuring that most can identify in some way with the content. ‘Wasting Time’ is no different and really highlights the growing maturity of this young band.
Finally, for luckier recipients of the EP like myself, is a brand new track, recorded a few months after the rest of the EP entitled ‘It Takes A Bit of Getting Used To.’ Again, lyrically the song is excellent, depicting the bitter break up of a previously strong relationship. Straying further still than the rest of the EP from the classic rock standard, the final track retains its attack and drive while still managing to be catchy and infectious, sticking in the head of anybody who hears it.
Overall this latest release from Bandwagon is a great rock EP. Without being harnessed to the usual list of influences Edgar, McQuillan and drummer Phil McKibben have forged their own unique sound in a genre in which it is very difficult to achieve this. It’s a must hear for any fan of rock music particularly fans of Thin Lizzy, Rory Gallagher and similar bands.
The track ‘It Takes A Bit Of Getting Used To (Get Used To It)’ can be downloaded for free here
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