2016 has proven to be a year of revitalisation for the Edinburgh music scene in many ways, with one such aspect being a multitude of bands representing the capital consistently putting out some of the best material in all of Scotland over the course of the last 10 months.
With that in mind, we turn our attention to alternative duo Thirty Three Connection, who we were first introduced to last year when we were given the opportunity to showcase their double-side singles – Heart In The Clouds and Time & Time Again. We found them both to be very enjoyable, and thus Andrew and Stephen had made a solid impression.
Naturally, when it came around to the release of their new self-titled EP, we had high hopes, and it gives us immense joy that those said hopes were exceeded beyond expectations.
The lead single In The Rain commences on a soft note, with riffs and piano keys soon making their presence felt, and from there it only elevates. The firm combination of strong dual vocals dripping with passion and the most infectious of melodies make for a stellar opening track.
As you take time to catch your breath, the pair ease into Venue, a stunning number that tells a gripping, somber story conveyed through utterly superb writing that really tugs at the heartstrings.
Up next is Now You’re On Your Own, which is highlighted by zealous drumming and radiant electronics, with verses that build up perfectly to an astounding chorus, and finally, the closing tune Reflection On The Water starts slow, but suddenly the tempo snaps up to provide a bombastic finale with the addition of memorable lyrics and a catchy rhythm for good measure.
It is not often you come across a record that blows you away, but that is exactly the case here. Thirty Three Connection have delivered an outstanding EP that is loaded to the brim with many remarkable qualities and a replayability factor where each listen only gives us more appreciation for the product that has been presented.