On the surface, Cumbria based COLT45 slot comfortably into the melodic punk genre, displaying a definite enthusiasm for hooks on 2011s EP ‘Chasing Yesterday’. Delivering five tracks of perfectly polished arrangements, this EP will undoubtedly appeal to those favourable of catchy sing-along melodies, and the band are often uplifting and always upbeat. With Romesh Dodangoda taking the helm at the production end, it is unsurprising that ‘Chasing Yesterday’ results in a clean and anthemic sound.
Although ‘Chasing Yesterday’ will appease fans of the aforementioned bands, the EP also comprises a healthy amount of rock sensibilities, encouraging comparison to more mature melodic punk contemporaries such as HUNDRED REASONS and THE GASLIGHT ANTHEM. In fact, it is this edge that highlights this bands ability to attract attention. ‘In These Dreams (I’ll Live and Die)’ imparts a touch of Americanised rock and roll, while ‘These Unspoken Arguments’ equally imposes a harder edge to the sound. Regardless of the intensity of the music on offer, the main focus on tunefulness is not forgotten, enhancing the captivating properties of the EP. Where melody well and truly takes the forefront, ‘Chasing Yesterday’ maintains a retro feel while also managing to be refreshing and accomplished.
2011 saw the three-piece bag support slots for a number of high profile bands, and on the back of ‘Chasing Yesterday’ it is difficult to argue against this entitlement. With a new EP already in the pipeline and set for 2012 release, it may not be long before COLT45 are joining their parentage on major headline tours; particularly if the new offering continues to develop their edgier side.
BEN TIPPLE