Envy of the State - Rags to Riches, Riches to Rehab (Single Review)
Thursday, 25 November 2010
Written by James Conlon
Midland quartet Envy Of The State return this week to release their latest single ‘Rags to Riches, Riches to Rehab’. The song is the second track from their debut album, ‘Soundtrack Of Your Life’, which was released earlier this summer. Envy Of The State have previously supported the likes of InMe and Fei Comodo, and like true disciples of the alt-rock order, they wont disappoint their role models with this latest release.
The song is a pop-punk powerhouse, full of melodic guitar riffs, tight syncopation and roaring vocals from the word go. It is no doubt a song intended for a live audience: from the first bar there is an abundance of energy, blasted out trough a pounding bassline and ska-inspired hi-hat strokes.
‘Rags to Riches, Riches to Rehab’ was clearly crafted as a homage to the rock goliaths of Lostprophets and Bullet For My Valentine, and in that sense it achieves its purpose: from their sound to their appearance, Envy of the State seem to have fully ingratiated themselves into the world of alternative rock music.
That is not to say that the track is without its flaws. Despite being a sharp song, abundant with technical skill, some may criticise the lack of any restraint. From the first seconds the song is forceful and anthemic, but having just one plateau throughout may come across as tiring and repetitive. In the same sense, the band use distorted chords throughout, squealing their way through the song. They are painting with blocks: sure, the colours are bright and powerful, but there is no real delicacy to the end product.
Some may also criticise the content, which adopts the tired aspirations of a 70’s icon. Yep, I’ve seen ‘Skins’, I’ve been told that drugs and drink are ‘cool’ now, but shouting out a self-destructive mantra of hedonism and regret may strike some listeners as slightly hollow.
Despite the slight oversights, ‘Rags to Riches, Riches to Rehab’ is an anthemic and powerful track. It is sure to get crowds moving and old men feeling nostalgic by the bar at the back. With a pounding chorus and more hooks than a fishing shop, Envy Of The State are definitely ones to watch out for.
‘Rags to Riches, Riches to Rehab’ was released on November 22nd. The band are currently plotting a UK headline tour.
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