EP Review: Time

Upon first seeing the album artwork for Time by Christchurch based band FINDMYKEYS, I was reminded of the iconic album by Joy Division – Unknown Pleasures. This first impression caused to me to regard the 5 track EP through a post-punk/new wave lens – and in many ways, it delivered. Much like that era, FINDMYKEYS have created songs that have simple, catchy hooks and riffs with instrumentation that feels almost sparse. Yet there is a subtle complexity in the use of tones, layering and effects that add depth to all the tracks. This variation in texture not only occurs between tracks but within certain songs.

Ultimately the stand-out feature is the lead vocal performance, a macabre blend of a Nick Cave and Leonard Cohen near-spoken rumble interspersed with a touch of INXS’ Michael Hutchence. This is superbly supported with higher pitched harmonising vocals, that again, harken back to the early eighties post-punk sound.

The first track, Game sets the general tone for the rest of the EP. Brooding verses with muted instruments and the gravelly lead vocals transform into a brightly accented and harmonised punkish chorus and, shock/horror, a key change for the final chorus to outro!

Back To You initially starts as typical punk song, but gradual introduction of cleverly layered guitar, synths, effects and vocal work turn the song into something that is quintessentially new-wave. Special mention must be made of the guitar solo which transitions seamlessly through multiple tones, effects and styles that it easy to overlook how clever it really is.

Be is probably the most restrained song on the EP. Stripped of the more complex layering found in other songs. It is a slower, laid back number that is simple, catchy and less moody than the other tracks.

The title track, Time reminds me of INXS. I can’t quite put my finger on the exact reason – possibly the vocal interplay that evokes the same dark, sultry energy that Michael Hutchence had with his band.

Find My Way changes things up with a more funky bass driven approach. It’s a brighter, poppier number and finishes the EP with a positive vibe.

While I have made a lot of references to 80’s music genres and bands, Time is not a nostalgia piece. It feels fresh with a definite Australasian character running through the tracks. Well worth an addition to your Kiwi band playlist.