Devon punks COPE released their debut EP Challenge Oppression// Pursue Equality last month. If you’re a fan of the likes of Every Time I Die and Feed The Rhino then you are sure to like this. Also as described by guitarist Josh Bowles; “If you like punk and you’re pissed off with the way the world is and want to vent some energy, whilst singing along to a catchy tune, then listen to us. We’re the voice of this generation and we’ve been quiet for way too long!”
Opening track Seasons Ending begins immediately and within a few seconds the urge to start a mini-pit is too strong! It’s full of riffs and hoarse vocals, mixing well. There is a strong drum beat throughout. The band say that their EP is full of aggression towards the world and this is completely evident. The second the track finishes, Voyage begins, the tracks flow well between each other. Voyage has a more melodic chorus. Here’s Hoping’s opening chords break the mould of heavy beginnings, but the track continues in the theme of its predecessors.
This is well and truly a punk record directing anger at the world. There are hoarse vocals which I usually do not like but it works well. If you think of the lovechild of Oli Sykes and Rou Reynolds, you can get a good idea of the vocals. Lyrically, each track is challenging you to think. Throughout the EP, there are riffs galore and a strong drum beat. Each song on the EP are put together very well and the EP is structured to flow. A strong debut release.