Yorkshire Rats – Yorkshire Rats

UK punk rockers Yorkshire Rats are a band that don’t like to hold back. Formed in Pontefract in 2004, the band is the brainchild of former Billy No Mates & Abrasive Wheels‘ musician Don Mercy. Already the band has quickly built up an army of dedicated fans attracted to their fine blend of So Cal punk and […]

UK punk rockers Yorkshire Rats are a band that don’t like to hold back. Formed in Pontefract in 2004, the band is the brainchild of former Billy No Mates & Abrasive Wheels‘ musician Don Mercy. Already the band has quickly built up an army of dedicated fans attracted to their fine blend of So Cal punk and 80s UK influences.  Following their 2015 release, Sea of Souls, the band are back with their self titled EP, and at just 4 tracks long, manage to pack in a punch in a perfectly formed package.

Kicking off the EP is recent single Alone Together and instantly those old school 80s vibes come through. It feels a little raw and rough around the edges in all the right ways. The vocals of Mercy have that Alkaline Trio, Jimmy Eat World feel to them; they drive the bounce along/singalong rhythm that is backed up by with loud strong guitar riffs.

Commenting on the lead track, ‘Alone Together‘ vocalist/guitarist, Don Mercy said: “The track is all about the strains of relationships whether that be romantic or political. I guess it’s quite apt with the current political climate and with people seemingly so polarised and at each other’s throats. Musically, I like to think this track shows the faster and more aggressive side of Yorkshire Rats.”

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The EP leaves no room for breathing and maintains its drive throughout. At four tracks long it leaves little room for error and gives those who are new to the band an introduction in a quick, loud and feelgood manner. There is absolutely an old school feel to the bands music and in an age where nostalgia is everyone’s favourite past time, it fits in just perfectly.

Rounding off the EP is Better Days Will Come at song that feels like one of those songs that would round off a live set perfectly. It has all the emo lyrics of hope and musically builds its way to a big good old sing along finale and some loud guitars. Yorkshire Rats are ones to keep an eye on for sure.

Laura Brown

June 20, 2017

@ljbrown26

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