Melbourne’s Redcoats have steadily been building a reputation as one of the tightest, most epic new rock bands going around. From the moment their new self titled EP starts, the listener is bombarded with a number of familiar influences. The easiest way to describe their sound would be to imagine Led Zeppelin getting high with Fu Manchu, although this will only give you a vague idea of what’s really going on here.
Since Wolfmother (yeah… I said it), there has been a real danger for many bands in this genre to be written off as another cheap copy. However, these guys can back it up. A solid and tough-as-nails rhythm section underpins their soaring melodies beautifully.
Songs such as “Kaytrucker,” “Rainbow Lips” and “Lions, Tigers & Bears (Oh My)” are excellent examples of the raw energy and power that we’ve come to expect from the bands live performances. “Dreamshaker” is without a doubt, the EP’s standout track. Its entrancing bass pattern and larger than life chorus makes for an easily fist-pumpable arena rock anthem. “Giants” provides an avenue for listeners to discover the depth and scope of the group’s song writing talent, however it seems this song would be more appreciated in a live situation.
In a musical landscape filled with a lot of shoddy knock-offs, it’s refreshing to see a band that not only pays homage to their rock forefathers, but also utilise the best elements of these influences to make their sound unique and fresh.
– Nigel Moyes
