Napalm Promotions: Driven Apart - Shadow Built [EP] [2013]

Driven Apart - Shadow Built [EP] [2014]

Driven Apart is the brain child of lead guitarist and main songwriter, Leigh Davies. Existing in various forms for many years, the band once again took presidence in early 2013 with Leigh re-building the bands line-up, along with drummer Chris O'Rourke. Work began on the EP along with a full line-up, and was recorded and self-released in late 2013. Complimented by a number of dates showcasing tracks on the EP.

Kicking straight in with the energetic and rythmic offering of 'Let Them Howl', the EP blasts in to action straight from the off, and builds progressively throughout. A great driving track with a very catchy chorus section that makes great use of the three guitarist line-up Driven Apart have. The power in the delivery is just phenomenal, with the instrumental side giving a solid back bone to the strength in vocalist Mike Coyles voice. The final build up to the end of the song completed with masterful leads from Leigh, make the structure incredibly interesting, and can keep you hooked throughout.

Second track 'Shadow Built' introduces a lot of the progressive side of the band, and builds around the central riff throughout, developing it in great ways to keep the song forever moving forward. The catch of the chorus being present once again, but without the verses being so full on as in 'Let Them Howl'. Instead allowing the song to move forward at a slower and steadier rate.

Bringing the EP to a close is the bands epic 'Blood Of Aesop' coming in at a whopping ten minutes long. The song goes from the softest of acoustic undertakings, to the bands charecteristic use of melodic riffing and lead guitar use. Building tempo to no end throughout, the song demonstrates just about all elements of Driven Aparts versatility and song writing skills. Matching the surreal fabled legends of Aesop himself.

My only criticisms of the EP as a whole are the general production. Specifically on drums with the sound being a little thin and lacking in power, which is prevalant in the opening to 'Let Them Howl', with the toms sounding a little bit plastic-like and non organic. The production to some end lets down an otherwise perfect execution by Chris on drums. The only other critique being that the length of the songs can put off more 'casual listeners' of Metal with their progressive build. Although again it's a matter of taste, and the structures have more than enough strength to keep fans listening throughout the entire EP.

Overall the EP is a great show of musical finesse and talent. With it having a real feel of long time development and care to perfect the songs and make them just perfect. It certainly pays off when it all comes together so fluidly and well. A definite recomendation for anyone into Metal of any sort of genre, and specifically those who love it with a progressive and melodic twist.