(4-track EP/ MI5 RECORDINGS)
I thought these guys were from Hull, but they're not� despite enjoying regular airplay on the city's
'Raw Talent' radio show. I feared that Riley might be just another in a never-ending line of derivative-rock driven indie bands, but they're not.
Far from it, in fact. They are from the West Midlands, and fronted by Dave Robertson on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, wielding a voice so soulfully pure it's the perfect complement to the band's lush, vibrant music.
The bulk of this 4-track EP is graced with blissful acoustic undercurrents, and when the 'big indie-rock band' sound does kick in, it's never thankfully at the expense of the songs' graceful acoustic roots. Opening with the title 'Sit Up' track, Andrew Grainger's emotive lead guitar presence ensures this track in particular is an outstanding indie-rock anthem; in truth, one of the catchiest tunes I've ever heard. Snow Patrol should be on their guard, especially as Riley's 'Forgiven' ('I try and breathe and don't succeed') track is equally as impossible to ignore, the bountifully resplendent melodies shimmering like beacons in the light. 'Belief Within The End' is another quality anthem of sheer soul, before 'We'll Be Fine' closes this EP with sparkling reverence, and the teasing lyric 'Nothing is left to be found.'
Sam Martin can be found - and most definitely heard - on drums, while Stef Clift is your man for any bass needs, and in response to Riley's inoffensively uplifting brand of music they've already had the fortune of supporting the likes of you, I, Paul Carrack, Go West and Space. What might be yet more exciting is their album (due for release in Summer 2004) that's produced be Paul Walton who has previously worked with U2 and Madonna.
There are few bands around who can channel such passion into such sublime music but Riley are most certainly one such quartet. For this EP's entirety, their music is heart-breakingly cool and chic.
Yep, Riley could make one woman effortlessly beam even more than she does already. Carol Smiley, on a hot summer's day in Filey.
(Steve Rudd)
www.rileyofficial.co.uk