Avalon Drive - The View from Afar
It may not be the full-length album that was anticipated after they won the first Uncharted series this year, but Avalon Drive's new EP The View From Afar shows just how far they have come.
Winning the Uncharted competition and obtaining the support of record company heavyweight Sony BMG came after independently releasing two EPs and years of touring and supporting many established bands. This EP is one that has matured lyrically and progressed musically to be a more all-round polished release for the Brisbane rockers.
The first three tracks touch on the same themes and give off a similar vibe and sound. "Life Support" is a brilliant opener. It varies in pace and builds to a powerful chorus with meaning. First single "Last One Standing" is not only reflective of their triumph in taking out the competition, but symbolic of how they have continued to push on and believe their craft will take them somewhere.
After listening to their older material and then spinning this EP, the maturity in lead singer Damien Douglass-Page's vocals is clear. Both his low and high registers are stronger and each song is delivered more naturally.
Fourth and final track "Make Your Move" was previously released back in 2007 as a single. It doesn't quite fit with the other three, but stands on its own as a song that has it all in terms of meaningful lyrics, passionate vocals, catchy riffs, and effective light and shade. Nothing's too soft or over the top. It's a first-class track that had to be included for those who are new to discovering Avalon Drive. In some ways it's their signature track.
Overall, this EP showcases four well-crafted and produced songs that could have set Avalon Drive up for a final debut album release. But with the shock announcement of their breakup just prior to heading out on tour in support of the new release, View From Afar will now stand as the final release as Avalon Drive.
Just as a band parting ways when the musical and personal connection is lost is important, so is spending money wisely. Picking up a copy of View from Afar is money well spent on four solid tracks rather than purchasing an album that has four good tracks scattered amongst many.
4 out of 5
