I was genuinely excited when Father’s Gun, the young rockers behind this EP, kicked things off with their intro song. It had a haunting, tension-filled atmosphere that instantly grabbed my attention and set the stage for something intriguing. However, once the episode really got going, I found myself confronted with a mix of jarring production choices and confusing genre shifts that left me feeling uncertain.
The production quality throughout the EP feels harsh and inconsistent. The vocals are way too high in the mix, at times almost piercing, while other moments have them buried so deep you can hardly make them out. The bass is either overwhelmingly loud or completely absent, making it difficult to get a clear sense of the band's overall sound. Some of the songs feel almost inaudible at points, where it's hard to pick up any distinct sound at all. The mixing and mastering are a chaotic ride, with volume levels fluctuating wildly, leaving you with a real sense of sonic disarray.
When the music is at least audible, I still struggle to figure out exactly what genre they're going for. Is it metal? Grindcore? Hardcore? There’s an unclear identity throughout the record, as the style feels like it's still in search of itself. On some tracks, there’s a noticeable lack of rhythm and groove, which makes it hard to stay engaged. However, songs like "Concrete" and "Ribs" show glimpses of potential, with the drums and guitar riffs locking in together to form a solid groove that gives the music more drive and energy.
It’s clear that Father’s Gun is still experimenting with their sound, and that’s reflected in the mix of songs here. Some are chaotic and rough around the edges, while others show flashes of real promise. That intro track had a lot of potential, though, and if they can harness that atmosphere and refine their approach, they have the makings of something really interesting. With some fine-tuning of both their sound and production, Father’s Gun could evolve into a band that stands out in the rock scene.
RATING: 6/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
GIVE ME ALL MY PAIN AND SORROW
CONCRETE
RIBS