The
Mars Patrol
" Turn It Around" EP
CD review by Mike O’Cull
Hailing
from Scotland and aiming to take their music as far as their
outer-space name implies, The Mars Patrol is an edgy and
evocative acoustic duo that proves how much can still be
done in a two-piece format if the songs and players are
strong enough. Guitarist/songwriter Ross Nelson and vocalist
Davina Divine create an attention-getting sound comprised
of driving rhythms, great lyrics and hooks, and good old-
fashioned musical intercourse. Their sound draws comparisons
to The Corrs and the acoustic side of Fleetwood Mac and
encompasses folk, rock, and pop at one time or another.
The EP is recorded as they are, with no rhythm section supporting
the grooves of the songs. Thankfully, Nelson is an able-bodied
guitarist and creates the pockets that drive the songs out
of thin air and his right hand. Davina Divine is the operator
of a strong and clear voice capable of giving life to every
emotion contained in these songs. Some of TMP’s best communal
moments happen in "Spokes Of Reality", the EP’s
opening cut, and "Breathe". The Mars Patrol is
currently on tour in the USA for the first time (including
a recent string of dates in Chicago) and that will hopefully
spread their music around a bit, which would be a good thing.
www.themarspatrol.com. |
