EP REVIEW: Untethered – Dream State

The path to stardom was set for DREAM STATE. After releasing two EPs (2015’s Consequences and 2018’s Recovery), alongside their 2019 debut album Primrose Path, the Welsh rock band looked set to take on the world. However, after numerous line-up changes, only guitarist Aled Evans was left. He could have easily called it quits, but instead the band have marked a new chapter with the recruitment of vocalist Jessie Powell, bassist Jake Bowen and drummer Tom Connolly.

The result of this major line-up change is Untethered, a three-track EP that pushes the boundaries when it comes to DREAM STATE‘s sound. The first song, Comfort In Chaos, was the second single to be released. Whilst the electronic elements at the opening might worry those who were fans of the heavier sound of the band, Powell proves she’s got the lungs to unleash some powerful screams. The band slip into their roles easily, and it is clear that they have stuck to their original sound. There are electronic elements, but they mix in well with the heavy instruments.

Whilst the rest of the band are utterly fantastic, particular praise has to go to Powell. She had big shoes to fill, as DREAM STATE‘s original vocalist was a unique voice in heavy music. Thankfully, she is more than capable of stepping up to the plate. Her clean vocals on Taunt Me blend in well with her unclean vocals, and although the track in question is more electronic, it sounds like a natural progression as it is mixed into the original sound.

The entire EP is well crafted, and each song stands out. In fact, the only issue is you’d wish it had more songs because the three songs go by quickly. On the other hand, you can see why they chose three songs. It must be nerve-wracking to have a completely new line-up, so it is understandable that the band would want to only release a few songs in order to test the waters.

Chain Reaction is a euphoric closer, full of the high energy of the previous two songs. It has a fantastic singalong value to it. It also keeps to the vicious heaviness that makes DREAM STATE so brilliant. Everyone sounds so confident and they are giving it their all. There is no denying that the new chapter of the band has only just begun. The production on the EP is also a highlight, with great attention to detail. The electronic elements do not overpower the songs, whilst also being more prominent than in previously released tracks.

Overall, this EP has something for everyone, whether you are a die-hard DREAM STATE fan, or are just getting into them. With all the band members sounding at their very best, and their new vocalist bringing her A-game, Untethered is a fantastic EP that proves one of the UK’s most exciting bands are back and better than ever. There is experimentation, which also does not ruin the original sound. Despite the slight issue of wishing it was longer, Untethered is another release that will be a fan-favourite. DREAM STATE are back, and they are ready to take the rock world by storm.

Rating: 9/10

Untethered is set for release on February 3rd via self-release.

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