Back in the early 2000s, when I was deep into my Everclear obsession (which still continues today), I did what I always do. If I like something, I try to find more like it. My investigations at that time led me to The Exies. They were their own men, but their “Inertia” record was far more interesting than most of the nu-metal nonsense that was prevalent at the time.
Now they’re back. With three original members and 17 years after their last release, comes the “Closure” EP.
And as if to prove they are eager to make up for lost time, “For What It’s Worth” doesn’t bother with an intro. Rather, it’s straight into action, picking up where they left off. Arena hooks and huge choruses are the order of the day.
Yet, it never sounds dated. And part of that is due to what singer Scott Stevens has been doing since the late ’00s. As a songwriter for the likes of Theory Of A Deadman, Halestorm, and Shinedown, he’s able to make songs like “Spirits High” soar, and although “s A.d” reins it in a little, you know it’ll burst out. When it does, it’s a beautiful thing.
It’s impossible to ignore the energy here. Whatever caused them to split, it seems like it’s over now. “Euphoria” is the type of thing that Three Days Grace does for fun, and this type of glossy, polished stuff is rarely made to sound so effortless.
“The Hill” climbs with real skill, and the emotions that have bubbled below the surface throughout are right there on the title track. “I came here all alone, and I’ll go out just the same” goes the last line here, and time will tell if this is merely unfinished business or something more.
Whether they were looking to mark the end or new beginnings, The Exies have found something superb with “Closure”.
Rating: 8.5/10
