EP REVIEW - WHEN SUDDENLY - ‘RAINCHECK.’
Cover art by Abbie Flaherty & Zach Duluc
Formed in Manchester, UK, in 2021, DIY emo/alternative band When Suddenly made their debut with their EP ‘demo’ in 2022. Now, as they gear up to release their second EP, ‘Raincheck’, the lineup includes JP Duluc on vocals and guitar, Zach Duluc on drums and backing vocals, Daniel Cotton on bass and guitar, and Charlotte Faye on guitar. Drawing inspiration from the Manchester music scene and Midwest Emo, they’ve crafted a sound that’s truly their own. ‘Raincheck.’ is an easy listen with its four tracks that fly by quickly.
“Big Banjo Theory” might remind you of early Joyce Manor mixed with Spanish Love Songs. Its captivating guitar riffs and catchy lyrics set the tone for the EP. “142” kicks off with an upbeat intro but doesn’t stray much musically from “Big Banjo Theory.” However, the harmonization between Cotton and Zach Duluc adds a new layer of intensity to the lyrics.
Taking a more emotional turn, “Broken Now” shifts the dynamics. The band shows promise with their in-depth lyrics, though the track might hit harder with fewer instruments or a more intense focus on the lyrics. Even so, it’s a solid song that captures a lot of heartfelt and reflective moments. JP Duluc’s line, “I swear, one day it won’t feel so empty,” resonates deeply and offers sincere support for someone who might be struggling.
“Night Drive” stands out by adding a fresh layer to ‘Raincheck’. The distorted vocals take a step back, letting the instruments shine. While the song might seem complex at first listen, it builds to a powerful ending that leaves a lasting impression and hints at things the band has to offer in the future.
’Raincheck.’ is an excellent example of what the UK DIY scene has to offer. After strong releases from Mammoth Penguins and ME REX this year, it’s exciting to see When Suddenly join the ranks. This EP marks the beginning of what we hope will be a promising future for them. After two years of musical growth and adding a new bandmate, they’ve clearly found their sound. ‘Raincheck.’ is authentic, fresh, and distinct.
It’s out on Friday!
