EP Review: Overpass - 'Dependent'
Overpass continue their hot streak with the release of their brilliant second EP, ‘Dependent’.
Despite only having one lengthy body of work to their name, Overpass have become one of the hottest prospects of the UK music scene. Their raw, undeniable chemistry and synergy on stage has led them to gather quite the fan base. They’ve drawn in bumper crowds for a number of their own headline tours, where they’ve packed out huge venues, ticking off a huge hometown show at Birmingham’s o2 Institute.
It’s safe to say that the release of Overpass’ second EP, ‘Dependent’, has been highly anticipated… And for good reason.
Kicking off with the titular track, ‘Dependent’ wastes no time. The band immediately show off the fullest of their abilities. The song begins with a tender, melodic arrangement where all band members come together to elevate the gripping vocals of frontman Max Newy. After the band have enticed their audience in with their delicate instrumentation, the track really kicks off.
In an instant we are treated to a flurry of beautiful chaos. Fuzzy, driven guitars take the wheel, with thunderous bass and drums accompanying. Newy’s voice takes on a feel burning emotion. He and the band create a sound that reflects the feeling of fully pouring ones heart out.
‘Dependent’ is a brilliant opener. It blows the door to the rest of the EP right off its hinges and unleashes all that Overpass have been cooking up in the studio.
Second on the EP is ‘Slow’. This one kicks off with an anthemic sound, with a huge rhythm section driving the early part of the number. Bass of India Armstrong and drums of Jake Bishop truly command the track and create a huge sound, that is topped full of emotion by guitars of Max Newy and lead guitarist Elliot Rawlings.
There’s just something about this song that is so unique. The choruses are infectious, with the frontman belting out some really emotive lyrics as he sings: “Come down slow, I miss the feeling of a broken home. And everyone here has a place to go, everybody but me.”
The track is anthemic in stature, bold in sound and truly heartfelt in its lyricism. Overpass may well be at their best with ‘Slow’.
The rest of the EP is just as strong as the opening two tracks. Two which feature are ‘Like No Other’ and ‘Be Good To Yourself’, both of which have become hugely popular with fans of the band, as they were released as singles in the run up to the EP.
The closing number of ‘Dependent’ is ‘Take It Or Leave It’, another which has been released- more recently- ahead of the EP as a whole. This one is stunning. The track is fast-paced and oozes a real swagger. The band show off, for the last time on the EP, just how strong of a unit they are. Each member comes together to create a high-octane track which is destined for the big stages. The catchy hook “You better take it or leave it” reflects that swagger heard in the instrumentation. Overpass embrace the attitude that they are who they are, and they’re not going to change for anyone. So, you better take it or leave it.
With that comes the end of an unbelievable second EP. ‘Dependent’ is sure to catapult Overpass to even loftier heights than they’ve reached thus far. Their sound is so unique. It’s dynamic, explosive and full of raw emotion. The sky really is the limit for the Birmingham outfit, who knows what’s next for them.
Words by Matthew Caslin
