When MAKE DO AND MEND announced that they would be releasing an acoustic EP, the overwhelming reaction was a resounding “Oh…?” – for a band known for their heavier sound, an entirely acoustic EP was always going to a risky move.
What Make Do and Mend have done here though is given themselves a whole new dimension. ‘Part and Parcel’ could easily have ended up a little boring, but it turns out to be a really well thought out piece of work. In particular, the addition of the piano and delicate drum beats accompanying James Carroll’s strangely relaxing vocals work brilliantly.
Songs such as ‘Transparent Seas’ and ‘Unknowingly Strong’ are massively different from the original versions but still retain instant recognition, while ‘Coats’ actually sounds better here as a folk rock/acoustic track.
Serving as a nice preamble to the as yet to be recorded new album, ‘Part and Parcel’ delivers on a big scale, proving that Make Do and Mend are far from a one trick pony, and also potentially on the verge of something great.
CHRIS MARSHMAN