Grifter - The Simplicity of the Riff Is Key EP

UK Riff Kings Grifter return with another EP of no bull, straight ahead bar-room 70's style jamming riff tunes. Simplistic to a degree but a wonderfully refreshing take on classic 70's Southern /Stoner Hard Rock, the title of this EP tells the story really. There is only 4 songs, nothing fancy just hit you in the gut rock and roll. The sound on this one seems a little more polished compared to their previous EP "High Unholy Mighty Rollin" but in a way it has made their sound even more straight to the point. There is big intro's or ending of songs, each track gets moving from the very first note. There is something about the sound that could only come from a British band, the vibe and energy reminds me of some classic UK bands from the past. The only modern band that comes close might be the amazing "Josiah" who also have that classic UK pub sound but Grifter don't need such comparisons. From the opening track "The Voices" you get a good dose of old fashioned groovy rock complete with a unforgettable chorus that will get you singing along especially if you are having a few beers while you are listening. If there is ever a band that makes you want to booze it up, it is this one. "Blind Rat Swarm" is a little more straight ahead with plenty of guitar crunch and pounding drums. There is a bit of a "ZZ Top" vibe within this tune and while this is a more traditional effort, it remains a favorite song of mine on this EP. "Pendulum" continues the groove based rock, another cool tune with a killer bass line. Ollie's vocals are particularly strong and these songs are perfect for his singing style, i know he has been compared to the dude from "Clutch" but i don't hear that much. The final track brings things back to a more straight forward style with more crunchy guitar and then its over. At under 20 minutes, its a short but ever so sweet kick ass pub rock release that should please both fans of 70's Hard Rock and modern Stoner rock people who still like good old fashioned beer drinking riff rock. This band might get words thrown at them like "generic" and "predictable" but this is only one blueprint for this style and Grifter know it backwards. This EP not only rocks but its also a lot of fun to listen to but bring the beer. 9/10

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