Damian finds much to enjoy in the solo EP of a Lonely The Brave man
Although Cambridge rock stalwarts Lonely The Brave are currently enjoying some well-earned downtime after finishing up touring for their second album, 2016’s ‘Things some Will Matter’. guitarist Ross Smithwick has decided to head back into the studio, and release new music under the name FutureLives.
The result is a four track Ep with some of the material having started before he joined Lonely The Brave in 2014.
The release is limited to 200 handmade copies, with limited edition artwork by Ross and Amber Doran.
“This is Living” is first up and is a high tempo slice of indie rock. The swirling guitar lays a great foundation for Ross`s pleading vocals and is ably supported by some stalwart drumming. A real full on track to kick us off. “Ex Marks” follows on, in a similar vein.
Ross felt that this track is not really a concept as such. He says he is obsessed with timelines; where you’ve been, where you’re going and what makes you who you are. “I guess this song’s about moving away from negative experiences with a person or a situation and how that has basically left its mark on you, how you move from that and grow and be a better person from those experiences.” “How it Ends” is more laid back and a nicely paced track.
I really liked this song and felt myself being almost hypnotised and drifting along with the mesmerising vocals and compelling sound of the music. “Picture Perfect” wraps up this offering. It is once more a nice slice of indie rock leaning towards the more shoe gazing end at times but again another thoroughly enjoyable tune.
This was thoroughly enjoyable EP and I look forward to a full album, hopefully later this year. Ross played everything on the record except the drums, which were performed by friend Dan Lucas. He has four more tracks already recorded and is working on another six songs, which he hopes will eventually comprise FutureLives’ debut album. He`s considering putting together a live band to start playing shows with later this year. I for one, would certainly look forward to seeing what I`ve heard so far, in a live setting.
Let`s hope it becomes part of our Future Lives!!
