Harker - Dead Ends

Labels: Self-Released

Formats: CD/Digital

Release Date: 17 May 2019

Tracklist:

1. Dead Ends

2. Flex Yr Head

3. Sticky (The Wedding Present)

As I've decided to cover punk stuff for the next few reviews, I wanted to highlight some bands that I've discovered on Bandcamp, starting with Brighton's Harker. They've been a band since 2012 (I think, though the Internet could be lying to me on that one) and have so far released a few EPs, a split and one full-length. They've worked alongside Shield Recordings, Wiretap Records, Disconnect Disconnect Records and Fond Of Life Records for the release of their full-length "No Discordance"; however, this three-track EP has been self-released as far as I can tell. Brighton can do no wrong musically in my opinion, so this shouldn't be an exception.

The title-track is a great slab of Americana/punk with plenty of British gruff grit. The guitars and vocals are melodic, with harmonies/shouting backing them up while the percussion and bass are simple and very effective. This is some catchy punk. It’s clear that Harker listens to a lot of US punk but that doesn’t do any harm to their music at all. Flex Yr Head is mid-paced with a grungy outlook on life. It shows a more heartfelt side to our own punk scene that’s there if you dig a bit deeper.

For their last song on “Dead Ends”, Harker covers Sticky by Yorkshire indie band The Wedding Present. Their take on it is true to the original but they also leave their own mark on it. It’s grittier than the other two songs on here, but that may be due to the delivery present on the original. This EP is a great introduction to Harker if you’ve never heard their music before. It’s approachable, melodic and really well played. 

You can stream and download "Dead Ends" here:-

They'll have hand-numbered CD copies available at their upcoming shows. Find the dates via their Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/HRKRUK/