Manhattan Coast – Beg, Borrow, Or Steal
Release Date: September 2012
Rating: 9/10
Having impressed us with their last two singles, expectations were high in the SWS camp for Manhattan Coast’s latest EP.
Fortunately for us (and them!), ‘Beg, Borrow, Or Steal’ sees the Bridgend bunch build upon their punchy pop-punk to deliver a fast-paced and fantastic release.
‘My Boat, My Rules’ kick starts this frenetic five-track record. Packing an immense intro of thundering drums and guitars that cascade into soaring vocals and gang chants, it’s a song you won’t forget in a hurry.
‘CF31 Kid’ pursues, powerfully presenting frontman Nick Lane’s enviable vocal range that effortlessly filters from softly sung stanzas to boisterously brilliant bellows.
Musically, it’s a style that is adopted by the whole band throughout the EP, who superbly shift from chirpy to chaotic in seconds. ‘Smile & Wave Boys, Smile & Wave’ is a prime example that sees the group tear through melodic rhythm sections and glorious group vocals that tremendously transcend into screams and a wall of relentless sound.
Rounding off the release are upbeat anthem ‘Man Down or Man Up’ and the surprisingly softer ‘I Open At The Close’. The latter is by no means slow, but showcases a more serious side to the quintet and their sublime songwriting skills.
Epic EP from a band undoubtedly destined for big things. And lads, your movie references didn’t go unnoticed!
Words: Kate Rees
