Recordings of The Middle East

VINYL FORMAT. "Opening track 'The Darkest Side' features finger-picked guitar and vocals from Jordan Ireland; one of the guitarist/vocalists. His vocal style is gentle, almost whispered, as if imparting a precious secret. Vocalist Bree Tranter offers a counterpoint to Ireland, with a similar effect. What becomes immediately apparent is that their roots are deep in folk and the various indie stylings of what is becoming a very crowded genre. To rise above the pack, they need to be very demanding of their muse and diligent in the way they write. There are bands out there working from the same palette who can do this and do it very well. The Middle East, packed with multi-instrumentalists and a strong vision are striving to be one of them, but are they worthy? 'Lonely' makes a case for a hearty 'Yes.' Initially it is spacious, and as it gradually moves through phases, it builds steadily over its seven and a half minutes. When it finally unfolds you hear Tranter wail while the band play it out ragged and graceful. The slightly jauntier 'Blood,' replete with whistling, builds similarly to 'Lonely' and it is joyous when it finally kicks in, the mood then lifts and an assembly of voices reprise the whistling melody to great effect. 'Fool's Gold' boasts a three way vocal over more finger-picking and focuses again on their quiet side, with three vocalists weaving in and around each other. It may seem like being damned with faint praise, but it is nice. Closer 'Beleriand' has a bit more of a spring in its step, and features some atmospheric guitar work and some excellent drumming from Mike Haydon." - Alt Sounds