Review: Hooks EP

It is always refreshing to hear a genuinely interesting and melodic new indie band, and that is exactly what you have with up and coming North London-based four-piece Hooks.

Fresh off the back of a successful performance at Camden town’s Black Heart the group has now released its first four track EP, with very pleasing results.

Opening track Back in Danger begins with a very pretty arpeggio that instantly evokes memories of The Smiths. But by the time it is joined by a solid and rhythmic backbeat, Hooks begin to take on a sound of their own.

Recorded and written over the past few months, it is a delightful opener to showcase the group’s music and a worthy introduction to the world.

Followed by We’ve Got Superpowers, driven by a pounding bass line reminiscent of former Joy Division/New Order axe man Peter Hook (no pun intended), the band find their stride to deliver a wonderfully catchy pop tune.

Beautiful harmonies on the chorus, crisp melodic guitar and exciting drum fills are just some of the reasons that Hooks could find themselves with a hit on their hands with this number.

We’ve Got Superpowers is certainly the high point of the EP, but that should certainly not deter the listener from enjoying final track What is the Rush.

Featuring some particularly neat lead guitar work and probably a lyrical highlight for the group, the song completes what, it has to be said, is a very enjoyable if not ground-breaking debut offering from Hooks.

But it certainly leaves you with the feeling that more is to come from the group and, based on this charming EP, I suggest you keep an eye out for whatever the lads serve up next.

“Hooks makes me want to get out of bed in the morning” enthuses one fan on the bands Facebook page. And without stealing his thunder, I couldn’t have put it better myself. Put this on every morning and you will be walking with a spring in your step for most of the day.

By Dan Colombini

Listen to the new Hooks EP below

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