The Pavestones - EP

In reviewing new music, specifically bands and solo artists, I tend to refrain from commenting or dissecting the production quality of the tracks. Solely because it is often difficult to find and afford high quality recording equipment, therefore concentrating on the musical content is more beneficial. However in the case of The Pavestones the authenticity and high standards of their recordings are particularly notable. Not only have they created four top quality  tracks, but they have utterly nailed the nostalgic 60's and 70's sound with unprecedented accuracy. So much so that during She Don't Feel or Today, it wouldn't be too surprising to hear singers Les Kay and Dan Stringer confess to being the walrus or indeed inhabiting a certain yellow submarine...


Upon further inspection it is apparent that conforming to modern conventions of music is not in the bands interest. Being a three piece you would expect the typical one guitar, one bass guitar and a drummer. Well expect again. Drop the bassist and add another guitar and you have the formula for some of The Pavestones masterfully retro symphonies. Usually the lack of bassist would result in a sound which lacks depth. This band however  has used the two guitars to create tracks like the exquisitely named Like Rolling Thunder which emanates a nonchalant and yet gripping atmospheric; any fans of The Doors will feel a sense of immediate familiarity. Not only do you feel that the song does not need a bass guitar, it almost convinces you that it sounds better without one...and that's coming from a bass player.

Although each individual song on the EP boasts high class musicianship and sticks to the 70's rock 'n' roll genre expertly, as a collective I feel that it may be missing something. The EP cries out for  a shorter more upbeat track to contrast with the rest, in order to keep the listener enthused. After listening I found the general sound of the band, being as distinctive as it is in terms of modern music, stayed in my head rather pleasantly, but at the same time I found it difficult to differentiate between the songs even after several listens. Quite ingeniously though The Pavestones have an ace up their sleeves, or more fittingly their waistcoats. You will go back and listen multiple times, such is the quality of the EP.

You must understand that The Pavestones are not a band which dwell in a past era as may be unintentionally implied through this review. They are at the forefront of revitalising the sounds of yesteryear, and thrusting them into a modern context. Their sound is contemporary making them a captivating prospect for bringing the past, to the future. In times where pop music largely fills the charts week in week out, couldn't we all do with a bit of blues inspired "Rock n Roll loveliness".

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