By D.A. Muse

The band Depswa (formerly known as Carcinogen) has a four song EP hot off the press for ya! Vibing a decidedly heavy, yet more new school/old school metal mix. Track one is "Faithless" a tune that opens with the feel of aggressive metal at it's best. Ya wouldn't know it from the first few moments of this track, but these boys can write a hook, as the chorus in "Faithless" proves. The vocals here are at times reminiscent of Ozzy in the old Black Sabbath days. When "Half Empty" hits you it grabs a hold with a rhythm that has bounce and swagger, and a heady dose of adrenaline supplied by ferocious guitar. The third track on this EP mixes it up or mixes you up, I am not sure which.

Some of the guitar riffs smack of a "new metal" formula that we have heard too many times before, but in a surprising switch the guys hand you a core melody that is tripped-out, almost psychedelic. The guitar plays a sort of serpentine musical line, and that quality is echoed by the singer's vocals. The final track "Tears & Smiles" yet again has an old school vibe, while showing off the vocals front and center…as the singer releases yearning cries "I want to be like you so perfect in every way." All elements of this songs are pleasing and well done, but I have to say what you notice first and foremost is the vocals; they kill on this track.

This EP shows you what Depswa has to offer and shows it well, but leaves you hungry for just a bit more. I suppose that's OK 'cause maybe it will get your ass out to their next show. You won't be disappointed in either the live show or this EP, so go see what it's all about!