Demo Review
Since their name-change, the artists formally known as Chaser have lost none of their raw power in this, Munroe Effect's debut demo. Although the seismic brutality of the guitars and drums initially hit
you like a slapstick grand piano, they are immediately countered by soothing bass glides and intricate arpeggios. You see, this is a band whose sound is characterised entirely by contrast and surprise. It’s stop/start, it’s loud/quiet, it’s slow/fast. It’s with almost a yin yang style precision that a balance is achieved and its harmony is never lost. Although made to sound remarkably simple, the complexity of the music will continually maintain your interest. Its epic nature means it’s common to find yourself attempting to break down its constituent parts, only to get lost in the song time and again. Many new bands attempting such an abstract form of music have historically been let down by either musicianship or production value. The beauty of Munroe Effect is that neither offence can be laid at their door. Every element of the five-piece is exceptional at their instrument, although occasionally the vocals lack a little conviction. But by adding a little more ‘oomph’ they would be the perfect compliment to the stampeding rhythm section and crunching guitars. With more than the odd tip of the hat to Biffy Clyro and Muse, Munroe Effect’s progressive, powerful rock is as mesmerising as it is violent, and at the same time subtle and melodious. Does that make no sense at all? Well, neither does the continued success of Sean Paul – it’s still true though.
