EP REVIEW: Chapter II – Ross Harding

South African rock singer-songwriter ROSS HARDING has just released his sophomore EP, the aptly-titled Chapter II, via Mongrel Records. It has been described as a “gritty riff-laden masterwork“, and that pretty much hits the nail on the head. Clocking in at just under 22 minutes, this EP is the perfect link to satiate the need for new music whilst still leaving listeners wondering what else Harding might have up his sleeve.

The singer-songwriter has a rough, guttural tonal quality to his vocals which fits perfectly with the classic rock and blues style that he runs with in his work. Add in the occasional country twang and you’ve got the perfect mixture for an easy-listening album that you can still bob your head to and have a jump about when it’s performed live. This style of music has the right balance of classic and new rock to bridge the gap between young and old listeners, which is no small feat.

The EP opens with Black Sun Blues, a track that starts off slow and takes quite a while to kick in, but once it’s picked up the pace it really shows off Harding‘s guitar prowess. Midway through the EP we get Love & Time, a track that is packed with impressive yet still oddly soothing guitar solos. With only five tracks, each has to be special in its own right; there is nowhere to hide, especially not on the last track. Let it Go II – Return has that job on this EP and thankfully it rises to the challenge. This slow and melodic track is incredibly relaxing, yet still catches your interest enough to ensure it isn’t boring or forgettable.

ROSS HARDING is recommended for fans of the likes of BLACK SABBATH, ALICE IN CHAINS and LED ZEPPELIN, though with the careful line he treads on this record he could likely cross over onto any mainstream rock playlist.

Rating: 7/10

Chapter II is out now via Mongrel Records.

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