Holy Esque - Submission EP
- Written by Kirsty Bates
The four piece Glaswegian band Holy Esque were formed in 2011 and released their self-titled debut EP the following year. The praise that followed the EP’s release earned them spots on the bill with The Raveonettes, Haim, Augustines and in 2013 at Glastonbury. The release of their new EP Submission on 17th July 2015 through Beyond The Frequency Records follows on from the success of their single releases ‘St.’ and ‘Silences’, and looks to be another triumph for the band.
Holy Esque have a unique sound which sets them apart from others, which as with other unique bands that have gone before, not everyone gets their individual style, causing them to become a Marmite band. Submission showcases their unmistakable sound with impressive rifts which carry you through the songs, a strong emotional backdrop, the superb use of all instruments and distinctive gravelly vocals from frontman Pat Hynes.
The slow build intro of the EP’s opening track ‘Fade’ has the feel of when a band first takes to the stage, with the anticipation of what’s to come. The track highlights the ensemble of everything that makes Holy Esque such a great choice and even promises “I’ll give you more.” ‘Gulf’ plays with different sounds that can be created when you don’t follow the crowd and choose instead to make more fascinating music. ‘Strange’ focuses on the emotional side of the band’s music, letting you get lost in the track and is accompanied with very a strong guitar intro and solo. The final track, ‘Thrones’ emphasises the interesting vibrato in Hynes vocal style which adds another layer of lyrical expression. The track builds throughout to a strong finish to the EP, leaving you wishing there are more than just the four songs you have just heard on the EP.
Holy Esque have two shows coming up in London (August 4th at The Social and August 5th at Old Blue Last), which will be well worth a listen, as the new EP is a great addition to their repertoire and shows they are going from strength to strength.