Fresh on the scene this week is an EP from the German art-pop band Giant Rooks, who describe their sound as “a thrilling mixture of indie rock, folk, and electro, blending melancholy with danceability.”
To provide some context, they debuted their first EP in 2015 and quickly garnered attention. Since then, they’ve been actively touring Europe, performing at festivals, headlining their own shows, and supporting acts like Temper Trap. Now, they’re back in England with a headline tour and a new EP.
Reviewing EPs can be a challenge. A good release should ideally introduce you to your next favourite track or band. Singles typically deliver the former, while albums offer the latter. An EP feels more like a first date—enjoyable, but it would be premature to declare a commitment right away.
Continuing with the dating analogy, Giant Rooks certainly pique my interest. Much like the Wilder Mind-era Mumford & Sons, they strike a balance between intellectual conversation and a playful spirit. The frontman’s vocals may evoke memories of my ex, Alt-J, but thankfully they don’t tread into uncomfortable territory.
Each track on the EP reveals a different aspect of their artistry. Standout songs like “Mia & Kiera” and the title track “New Estate” are both understated yet captivating examples of indie rock. In contrast, “Bright Lies” explores a darker theme, while “Chapels” leans towards indie-folk influences.
Despite the varied styles, Giant Rooks maintain a cohesive sound that ties these diverse elements together, setting a promising foundation for their future debut album.
In conclusion, while I won’t divulge too much, I thoroughly enjoyed this EP and look forward to what they have in store. If they continue to impress, who knows what could happen after their next release?
