PUMP ACTION RADIO

Pump Action Radio, a melodic punk quartet, from Bournemouth are ready to release their debut EP, ‘Cheating Perfection’ and first impressions from their explosive opener ‘Famous’ are great. It has energy and embeds itself with really catchy instrumentals. It is unrelenting and all of the aspects that made the initial track enjoyable are taken up a step with ‘Cheating Perfection’. It’s a well executed track with choruses that beg to be sung along to, and is full of powerful guitar sections. The vocals suit the playing style well but don’t seem to able to go it alone; this is displayed in the beginning of the third track, ‘The Difference’, where the vocals are the focal point for the first 25 seconds and it just feels awkward. When the band gets into full swing again they return to their amazingly catchy riffs and the vocals work well but with only the 4(5) tracks it is hard to make a proper judgment as it is the only time that the vocals take centre stage. The fourth track, ‘Pow!! Right in The Kisser’ does exactly what is says on the tin and, from start to finish, it showcases the energy and hard hitting instrumentals that are ever present throughout the EP. There’s an unexpected fifth track which seems to be a remix of ‘Cheating Perfection’ and, to be honest, should have been left off the CD. When comparing it to the original track, just 3 songs prior, it creates a poor finish. It’s not in the same style as all of their other tracks and lacks their usual energy and catchy riffs that are so enjoyable in the previous 4 songs. Pump Action Radio have had comparisons made with bands such as You Me at Six, Kids In Glass Houses and even Blink 182; their energetic and catchy style works well and creates an enjoyable listen, and it’s a good EP but there is room for improvement.

LABEL:

FORMAT:

Self-released

EP

CHEATING PERFECTION

Review by Matthew Gray

RUNNING TIME:

-

RELEASE DATE:

16th Sept 2013

TRACK LISTING

1) Famous
2) Cheating Perfection
3) The Difference
4) Pow!! Right in the Kisser

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN:

UK

"...a good EP but there is room for improvement."