Held by horses – In History

Essex rock band, Held by Horses, were formed in January 2011.  A few months later they released their self titled debut EP, and are now ready to release their second EP – “In History”.  In terms of live shows, they’ve played gigs with bands such as Missing Andy, Mallory Knox, Johnny Get The Gun, Our People Versus Yours and Stealing Signs.  Musically they cite influences including Deaf Havana, Emarosa, You Me At Six, and Lower Than Atlantis.

“The last word” features Renz Byrne (Never Means Maybe) joining Harriet Reynolds on vocals which adds some much needed variety to the EP.  It’s probably the best song on the EP, but like the others suffers from the chorus failing to stand out enough.  To be honest it’s the only track that really stands out from the others, and that’s purely down to the male vocals – the other songs just kind of blur together I’m afraid.

The problem I have with this EP is that there just isnt anything new or exciting.  The music is well played and the vocals are good but not great, but there is nothing special here I’m afraid.  The band certainly have potential, but need to keep working on the songs – the choruses aren’t at all catchy and memorable at the moment, so that’s an area where some improvements could yield big benefits.

Rating:  5/10

Held by horses are:

Harriet Reynolds – vocals
Kyle Ginn – rhythm guitar
Will Smith – lead guitar
Charlie O’Halloran – bass
Scott Dillon – drums

Track listing:

1. You win some, you lose some
2. Little water
3. The last word
4. Down and out
5. Virtues