“Old gospel, cold shoulder, I let you go.“
Peace Ritual could be described loosely as a supergroup, comprised of Joel Martorana (Endless Heights) and Thomas Elliott (Caged Existence) with co-writing and production credits from Sam Bassal (Ocean Grove). The latter group will be a familiar name to many, and with Endless Heights and Caged Existence arguably being two of the most underappreciated Australian bands in the past years, it’s a pleasure to see their members shifting their talents to other projects. On paper, it would be expected that the trio would take on hardcore leanings; however the self-titled end product is a heavenly dream pop EP with an alternative coating.
From its opening moments in “Tears Of Joy“, it’s difficult not to be swept away by what Peace Ritual have crafted. Elliot’s guitars are akin to something you’d find on a Allvays or DIIV track but fuller and with a jangle twist. Pouring out some beautiful melodies on the aforementioned opener and on tracks such as the closer, “Heart Lasso“, and “Trust Full“, the ex-Caged Existence guitarist proves write both gnarly hardcore riffs and summer evening melodies with equal skill. These are accompanied by Bassal‘s toe-tapping rudiments, which come with some grand drum fills that expand the four tracks out sonically.
The self-titled EP is given its soul by Martorana’s vocals, whose delivery — as expected — is top notch. Listeners of Endless Heights will be aware of his talents, with tracks such as “Pray I Fade” and “Heart of Your Lie” showing off his vocal abilities. “Trust Fall” and “Cold Shoulder” contain hearty, emotive vocals that fill the soundscape with a pleasant, infectious joy throughout. This, combined with romantic, indulgent lyricism, produces a mood, an atmosphere, of a sweet summer fling. While it might sound slightly cheese-y, there’s something pleasant about the EP that raises a smile when listening.
Peace Ritual’s self-titled offering is a brief but joyous journey through the beautiful riffs and dreamy vocals that the trio deliver. While I would give my little finger for further Endless Heights and Caged Existence material, Peace Ritual’s EP will undoubtedly steal the heart of listeners coming in from those quarters. For many hardcore fans who find themselves indulging in bands such as Choir Boy, Private World and Beach Fossil, Peace Ritual is a must when looking for new material to add to their collection. All there is to hope for now is that this EP is not a one off, as the lasting feel of the self-titled is a desire for more of Peace Ritual‘s enchanting melodies.
8.5/10
Peace Ritual is out this Friday via Last Ride Records and can be pre-ordered here.