Eighteen months ago Punktastic highlighted the angry voice and thought-provoking lyrics of Ben KP Smith. It’s more of the same here for the now London based singer-songwriter who alongside bassist Steve Knight makes up Torn Out.
This three track demo is a no-nonsense, stripped down affair that whilst containing the production qualities you’d expect from home recording is able to rise above the tedium that mires so many professional acoustic outfits. It’s heartfelt, socially conscious and filled with a grit that makes you take notice. Knight’s subtle bass fills out Smith’s acoustic guitar without ever drowning the six-string.
Smith’s angry voice carries an anti-corporate tone throughout the three tracks. “My self esteem takes another kicking from a brash billboard” (from ‘Damaged Goods’) is the perfect example of the establishment-baiting lyrics on offer here. Torn Out isn’t about breaking up with your girl or playing a beachside campfire, it’s about sending a forceful message that some things need changing. Track 1 is called ‘Soul Of These Streets’: you definitely get the impression that Torn Out could well be this.
In a nutshell it’s gritty, self-reflective acoustic punk on a par with early King Blues material or Mike Scott‘s current offerings. Brash yet sincere and well worth a listen.
This demo is available direct from the band at http://www.myspace.com/tornoutuk
Alex Hambleton