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Released on February 9, 2015 via Century Media Records
Is Everybody Listening? is the second EP by London outfit ZOAX. On first listen the EP is fairly short and sharp, seemingly over when it has just got started. Tracks just end (just like they should, this is post-hardcore, not easy-listening). ZOAX manage to create a fairly original sound in a genre crowded by generic, similar sounding bands.
‘Intro’ has quiet, clean vocals and an unusual bass sound that gives the sub a good workout. It doesn’t, however, seem to fit the rest of the EP. ‘Lonely Souls’ in comparison is an urgent, heavy track, riff-driven with a whole range of guitar instead of predictable power chords. It’s interspersed with softer melodic passages and Carroll’s vocals are better when heavy/scream.
‘Click’ has some Deftones like riffs with alternating screams and clean vocals. The ending of the track is fantastic; soaring, guttural screams building so a awesome crescendo. Quite surprised with Rogers’ relatively sparse drum-track, it is, however, there when it needs to be. Carroll’s vocals shows range and power here and it’s the best track on the EP. ‘Zero Point Seven’ moves into a more (modern) metal territory, with guitarist Wotherspoon letting loose a mad solo after a catchy, chunk riff. The one problem with this track is that it’s 2:54 long!
‘Right Words’ starts in an almost ballad-like fashion, but soon goes back to the familiar, screaming norm. These quieter passages build some kind of slightly impatient urge for the band to go back to the heavy, powerful sections. The vocals will not be to everyone’s taste and can sound a little forced in places. The last track ‘Innocent Eyes’ shows the full range of what the band can do; it is a surprisingly mature sound for young lads.
This is a mature and confident sounding EP with well-crafted songs and that keep you hoping for more. It’s short and sharp, heavy while still remaining melodic.
