Bunker Rock Reviews: Ashes Fly Like Memories

Release Date: December 21st 2020

We're going to do something a bit different today on BRR. Up until now, our reviews have been about big names like Smashing Pumpkins and Run The Jewels, whom as much as we love 'em—aren't really wanting for such attention. Instead, Obsidian Eagle is determined to go full indie by reviewing a recent EP from fellow 'chordist' and recording artist, Drew Haze. OE thinks you’ll find as he has that this demo disc deserves some serious consideration.

Ashes To Smashes

Since it's just an EP, this review will be more of a quickie than usual. Nevertheless, whatever his offering might lack in quantity, Drew Haze definitely makes up for it in terms of quality. If you can appreciate that subgenre sometimes known as acoustic puritan, then there's plenty present here for your enjoyment. Please permit me to walk you through it...

1. So Damn Collected has a stuttering strumming pattern that gets us right into the groove of things. Spaced-out reverb on the vocals shines through brightly as do soothsayer lyrics, which ring somewhat bittersweetly. The instrumental solo to outro is of Jack Johnson caliber.
2. Eye of The Beholder begins with an atmospheric chord progression accentuated by fine harmonics. Its verses are underscored with subtle touches of piano keys and the chorus line is rich in nostalgia for a lost era. A backup voice verges on being inaudible yet resounds well enough for those possessing a discerning ear. Blink and you'll miss the off beat that it deliberately ends on.
3. Lucy (Take Me Home) flows organically from its predecessor. Though it commences using a driving metaphor, it lyrically describes desire sought after as well as desires satisfied. This is a boundless romantic ballad whose melody meanders into Sublime territory (both figuratively and literally). In fact, I can think of half a dozen good bands that this song reminds me of but there’s no need to name drop every last one. Suffice it to state that it’s a whirligig of emotive modes, which evokes many greats before culminating in a solo akin to classical gas. Very worthy of the repeat button!
4. Throw Me To The Wolves is a decidedly radio friendly song that ought to be this EP's single. It certainly has the capacity to become a persistent earworm. The reviewer wonders why this isn't already playing on stations such as CKCU? When Drew sings: "Throw me to the wolves, I'll be alright. Another full moon, another street corner fight!" It wouldn't surprise me to hear people singing along with him at say, a coffee house or crowded pub. Several generations of angst should all be able to relate with Drew's bold message. The end is a little melancholy for an otherwise upbeat number but it remains righteous nonetheless.
5. Blanket (For JCEM) lays matters to rest and tucks us listeners in for the night. Drew patiently plucks out the pace on his strings while serenading worldly woes away with dulcet tones. It's actually a sobering lament wherein sonic clarity sparkles on either the fretboard or keyboard. A pleasant sendoff.

Takeaway

Ashes Fly Like Memories is a splendid set of songs that can warm the cockles of the most jaded heart as a fireplace does on cold winter days. Credit goes to Fluency Grey for his deft production of this superlative soundscape. These make perfect tunes for any other audiophiles who are hunkering down in their bunkers. Truly a diamond in the rough; I sincerely hope to hear lots more similar gems in the near future so do keep your ear close to OE's velvety underground and as always—

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