After going quite some time without finding any young homegrown bands that excited me, I’ve suddenly come across a couple. One of them, You Me At 6, have as much potential as any unsigned act I’ve recently come across. This 4-tracker shows two sides to the band – the shiny, accomplished ‘Gossip’ and the fantastic ‘The Rumour’ are huge emo-rock songs, while the remaining two tracks are more aggressive screamo-esque numbers that aren’t quite as good. But bear in mind two-fifths of this band are 16 and the rest are only 17 and there’s a good chance this band will be ones to watch in 2007 and beyond.
While there’s a familiarity with the band’s sound, they do what they do very, very well. ‘The Rumour’ sounds like Finch mixed with Hawthorne Heights. The guitars sound huge, Josh’s vocals actually sound a little 36 Crazyfists in places too. With a very strong chorus it’s a fabulous song featuring clever riffs and a nice breakdown (and those gang vocals are a really, really nice touch) – I would argue it’s possibly a little long and a minute or so of fat could be shaved off, but that’s nothing too serious. ‘Gossip’ is every bit as good too, again showcasing the ability to write strong, catchy choruses that will stick in your head for some time to come. The remaining two tracks sound older as the musical progression isn’t there. That’s not to say they’re not good songs, it’s just I feel ‘Noises’ and ‘This Turbulence Is Beautiful’ sometimes resort to screaming when it isn’t really needed. That said, both songs show glimpses of excellence too, although the first two tracks, I feel, suit the band better.
The biggest problem YMA6 may face is keeping their feet on the ground. The opening two tracks here are better than most of their older, and more professional, peers and so it could be very easy to get carried away with their ever-increasing myspace fanbase. But the hard work starts here. Getting a proper release together and setting out on the road could bring home some strong support slots before the summer is out – and while headlining The Astoria as an unsigned band is unlikely, I think those kids that love Enter Shikari could easily find a great new band with You Me At 6.