Labels: self released
Review by: Joe Caithness
Well this one came out of nowhere. I like to think I keep my ears to the ground when it
comes to the musical niche of punk rock which these guys inhabit, but this band, of which
I know nothing of the members, former bands, influences, anything. City Dweller are a new
band from London, and this is their first release, a 6 track EP on a cassette.
The first thing you notice when hearing this demo, is that the production and songwriting
within about 20 seconds eclipses most UK DIY demos I have heard to date. From the late 80s
Dischord Records style ringing open chords and big chuggy wall of noise mid paced punk, to
the twists and turns within the 3 minutes of the first track “Makeup” that keep your
attention right the way through.
As the EP continues there is more brilliant big chunky early Jawbox esque rousing post
hardcore stompers, dreamy chorus laden proto emo stylings, combining heartfelt sung and
gutsy Guy Picciotto moans and groans from the vocalists.
There is no “these guys have potential” here, if this was on a 12″ I’d be ordering it based
on a few listens on the bandcamp. This is a strong EP by a strong band who have essentially
appeared from nowhere.
If you’re currently getting kicks off UK bands like Bird Calls and Facel Vega you have no
excuse not to order this tape off their bandcamp, and if you’re into great 80s DC
influenced punk, or good punk rock in general, you could do a lot worse than give this a
listen.