Hailing from Glenrothes, this 3-piece first attracted our attention with their difficult twitter handle and their intriguing single ‘Heaven’ - which actually features as the grand finale of this excellent debut EP - ‘XV’. They've since built on this and wasted no time with getting further material out with all 5-tracks showcasing a different side of CXLVMBIA.
Having only heard the aforementioned ‘Heaven’ I wasn’t sure what to expect, however, as soon as opening track, ‘I<3 U So’ kicked in with it’s 90s Synth and soaring chorus I was hooked. Just imagine 2-Unlimited took a slight musical detour and started dabbling with some indie, then you get the idea. It’s a strong start from the boys.
It’s clear the band have been having a lot of fun in the studio, experimenting with a range of styles and influences, including the piano interlude which takes us gently into the lush world of ‘Broken’. A track which grows on you with every listen, there’s a real sense of sincerity as Sam Bell’s deft vocals and ambient drums make way for an uplifting final third.
Yes, you guessed it, CXLVMBIA continue to keep the listener on their toes with another curveball, this time in the form of the Blossoms-influenced ‘Moment’. Scrap that, more like Blossoms with added power chords, crunching guitars with menacing undertones.
We see this debut EP climax with the rousing ‘Heaven’ - your classic track of two halves. It opens with an off-beat groove, lead by David Anderson on drums that soon transcends into more classic rock solos and finally onto the pulsating finale which slowly builds to a crashing crescendo.
Listening to this EP is like when you used to jump on the waltzers as a kid, you have no idea which direction you’re going, or even if it’s safe…but you enjoy the ride all the same! (Screaming is optional). Go on, give it a spin! - DC
Our Top Pick: Broken, I<3 U So