EP REVIEW: Division Culture – Foxhaunt
Fresh off the release of their critically-acclaimed EP Mindset from last year, FOXHAUNT are back with Division Culture. The York-based alternative rock band have had a few line-up changes since their formation in 2018, but now comprise vocalist Ollie Swift, guitarist Thom Clayton, drummer Jamie Scott, and bassist Nick Dawson. With the band’s influences including the likes of LINKIN PARK and ANBERLIN, it is not surprising that they’ve developed a reputation for energetic live shows which have seen them play alongside bands such as LONELY THE BRAVE, NORMANDIE and EMAROSA. But does that energy translate into their music?
Mostly, the answer is yes. From the opening bars of Division Culture (the track), the song fizzles with a subtle energy that unfortunately is never really utilized. The verses are mellow and gentle, but the choruses are hyper and danceable. The guitar solo midway through the song really cements the energy. Whilst it might not be as energetic as some people were expecting, sometimes the live energy doesn’t translate well to the studio, which is a shame. However, it is still a brilliant, if slightly restrained start to the EP.
Fortunately, Double Tap fixes the issue that the opening song had. It bursts with energy, and whilst it leaves us wondering why it couldn’t have been the opening song, it is almost as if the band were keeping their cards close to their chest, luring the audience in with the first song before showing their true selves. With a big singalong chorus, Double Tap is a highlight on the EP.
It must be hard to choose what songs describe your band in just four songs. Thankfully for FOXHAUNT, they just keep getting and better. In Cycles turns everything brilliant about Double Tap up to 11, and is yet another highlight of the EP. The band sound comfortable, and the drums in particular make the song complete, as they sound a lot more polished.
Room To Grow showcases a softer side to the band. However, it does not grind the EP to a halt. If anything, it feels like a natural progression. And although the synths don’t quite fit into the song, they aren’t used too much, which does both hurt and help the song. They are somehow both jarring and yet also kind of fit the song, especially when they are mixed into the instruments. In fact, the last chorus is the track’s best, as it not only hints at what direction the band could go to next, but also that they are not willing to stick to one genre. Whilst it might not work completely well, it is thankfully utilized in a way that doesn’t take away from the band’s core sound.
Despite a few stumbling blocks, Division Culture is a brilliant effort by an exciting new band. They have a clear talent and vision, and they’re also not afraid to experiment. Although the experimentation in the last song doesn’t quite hit the mark, and the opening song sounded like they were holding themselves back, FOXHAUNT have managed to showcase that infectious energy that they are known for. Division Culture is a fun, engaging, and well-produced EP that boosts the status of a band that are just waiting to hit the big time. This EP is a clear sign that FOXHAUNT are a name to watch.
Rating: 8/10
Division Culture is set for release on April 7th via self-release.
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