'Only the Quick and the Hungry' is the second EP from Sydney-based band Bears With Guns. These gents are a little different from your regular Australian fare; their work features a diversity of instruments rarely found in modern music (mandolin and djembe fans can rejoice).
'Snakes and Ladders' kicks off the album as a jostling folk tune, driven with a frenetic acoustic guitar. Further in, the rambunctious 'Metaphysics' features on funky keys and catchy lyrics. Wrapping up the EP, 'Taken For A Fool' errs somewhat more on the mellow side, portraying a pensive tale of broken love.
The real gem here is 'Wandering Soldier'. It's the standout track on this album, showing a sophistication and maturity that offers a glimpse of what's ahead for Bears With Guns. It features some brilliantly constructed lyrics, belted out by singer Robert Saunders. Moments of cacophonic melody give way to acoustic strumming, and a haunting trumpet provides a response to Saunders' call.
'Only the Quick and the Hungry' is, overall, a warm and joyful affair. This relatively young band show a great deal of potential, and I can't wait to see how Bears With Guns follow up this offering.
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