EP REVIEW: What Do You Say? – Æsthetic Will
What Do You Say? is the latest release from Milanese post-punk new wave artists ÆSTHETIC WILL. Recommended for fans of MOTORAMA and THE CURE, ÆSTHETIC WILL are Alex Fasolo (guitar/synth), BlackWing (vocals), David “Dr. Shimmer” Rosenfeld (bass) and Kev (drums).
This six-track-release acts as a mini-album and is the perfect introduction to a new artist as EPs are often not enough, yet newer bands don’t always have funding for full-length releases. Within these six tracks, ÆSTHETIC WILL go full throttle with experimentation, spanning multiple genres and stylings, yet all seem to work together in this cohesive amalgamation of artistry. However, whilst some may be able to appreciate and enjoy the variety, it certainly isn’t something that will appeal to the masses. And there is nothing wrong with that.
Whilst the likes of THE CURE and PLACEBO are already brought up in comparison to ÆSTHETIC WILL, there are a lot more influences that can’t quite be pinpointed, which helps the band separate themselves to a degree on this release – but that doesn’t necessarily mean that the result is a unique sound.
Vocal distortion is always hit and miss and unfortunately in the track Gate 7 it just doesn’t work. The distortion is so thick that vocalist BlackWing could be saying anything at all, it’s too difficult to decipher, but the instruments do carry that track regardless. Thankfully, Scent Of light rectifies the distortions with a much lighter and effective use, resulting in ballad stylings and borderline ethereal vocals in some parts.
A firm highlight on the release is Saturn Collides. It is unsurprising that this synth-heavy song is a single as it’s very universally appealing. It’s also a much slower softer track, border-lining acoustic at points and is very easy listening. Manifesto is a clear filler track, and Affection is much too repetitive to be enjoyed, but there are definitely more wins than losses on this release which is always a benefit. Jealousy is a fun and catchy bop of a closer to the album for the most part. That said, it could do without the 40-second-long noise distortion at the end; it adds nothing and is quite frankly a bit annoying.
What Do You Say? is described by the band as a journey full of experimentation, and a journey it is. With no two songs the same, there is something for everyone, and those with an eclectic taste may like more of it. For a new band still finding their feet it’s a good release and shows promise for the future.
Rating: 6/10
What Do You Say? is set for release on January 7th via self-release.
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