EP REVIEW: No Show – Sœur

One year on since last EP Fight, Bristol rockers SŒUR are back with No Show. This new EP is five tracks of rock which sounds simple on the surface, but after a few spins it reveals diverse layers amongst the slick hooks. The dual-fronted trio have an irresistible sound thanks to the distinct vocal chemistry of front women Tina Maynard and Anya Pulver. Throw in some grunge-infused riffs and you’re onto the winning SŒUR formula.

A short and sweet riff beckons the start of the title track. Hushed vocals croon before the chorus erupts into a rock furore. No Show is a superb example of the different voices SŒUR boast. The highs and lows, the sweet and the grungy, it’s almost like hearing different perspectives. The dark undertones are oddly alluring and truly make the opening track a standout one.

Lead single Do What I Want sometimes strikes as a little immature, both with the lyrics and melodies, but it is one hell of a catchy anthem. The simple riffs and innocent vocals build up to a kickass climax which makes up for the slow start. Do What I Want is a song which is easily relatable and that is what ends up being so charming about it. This charm continues in Better, which is a glorious little track full of beautiful motifs and melodies. With a gentle approach, the verses sound sweet but the lyrics hint at something a little more twisted.

Don’t is an interesting track, with its laidback riffs and the two voices telling different stories. It is over before you know it but each listen unearths a subtle detail you missed before. The pace reduces for last track For You. The slow riffs are quite mesmerising but after four promising tracks, For You is a bit of an anti-climax for the EP.

After teasing fans with EPs since the band’s formation, it’s safe to say the world is ready for a full album from SŒUR. Always exploring sounds and styles, the trio will never fail to surprise. The potential and chemistry is there for SŒUR to become something truly special. Whatever energy they unleash, they’ll be sure to tap into that crossover appeal.

Rating: 7/10

No Show is out now via self-release.

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