Reviews!

‘Merchant Songs’ EP
Custom Kings
(Liberation Music)
Yet another one of those reggae/roots/hip-hop melanges emerging in Australian music, Custom Kings has a sound reminiscent of something between The Cat Empire and The Beautiful Girls. This second EP from the Melbourne group has somewhat progressed from their debut ‘Where Do They Go?’, with smoother production and greater complexity in songwriting. There may be an appeal created by the range of instruments and effects and the relaxed outdoorsy afternoon feel, suggesting that Custom Kings could produce a great live set. However, the songs on this EP lack any sort of catchiness, innovation or ideology to set them apart from artists of similar genre, or to reach any strong rapport with the listener. Nevertheless, Custom Kings show some potential as they grow to find a greater sense of identity in their music.

Custom Kings' Official Site
Custom Kings' myspace


‘Baby’s Eyes’ EP
Halogen
(Karmic Hit)
Perth band Halogen has always had a great sound, and this EP shows how it continues to evolve and improve. Perhaps less “heavy” than their previous work, they retain the same sweet vocal styling of Jasmine Yee over an essentially pop instrumentation. However, their lyrical expression is more subtle and unique, and their guitar riffs more artistic, producing a textured and intriguing soundscape. Halogen has become a band whose music progresses naturally without contrivance, being original yet accessible. Look forward to future work from the five-piece.

Halogen's Official Site
Halogen's myspace