The Van Demon

Bullet E.P (Map Music)

It has to be said that in general, not much other than irritability and discontent comes out of being stuck in a traffic jam on the M1. However, add the ideas and inspiration of three creative human talents all with varying strengths and diverse experiences within the music industry and the compelling concept of The Van Demon is born. An extravanganza of hi-tech, indie-pop with a buzz of artistic imaginations running wild and free.

The initial recording project has seen the band, comprising of David Carter (songwriter, vocal and guitar), Colin Smith (songwriter, producer,engineer) , Ben Hardy (songwriter, vocal and guitar) and a host of session musicians holing themselves up in Map Studios ( www.mapmusic.net) in order to present us with their first bid for recognition in the form of the intriguing and impossible to define ' Bullet ' EP.

' I could lie ' gives us lead licks liberally mixed with dependable bass and introduces us to Carter's interesting vocal. A perfect opener to this EP, this track has the energy and deliverance which hammers home quickly the proof that this work is something special, and that this is just the beginning of the band's journey.

' Bullet ' , the serious cornerstone of the five tracks has fine art mixed with elements of prog Indie rock. The occasional use of an auto tune demands the focus is on Carter's distorted vocal and adds elements of diguise and unpredictability to this extremely sexy tune. Attention stealing quality guitar riffs, together with drumming that most bands would die for , the grip of the passionate vocal and evidently laboured over production techniques create a sound which in turn creates a need to just groove the night away in a dark club somewhere anonymously.

'Run ' , a rich and involved easy listener captures the ear with the forever moving sound of a cello intro, elaborate and distinctive lead and rhthym and now we have Hardy's almost grave pitch vocal. The bridge of the tune redolent of 'Steve Hillage's Gong' 70's psychedelia is rounded off with accelerated funky bass lines and frenetic drumming. A little something for everyone in this track.

' Bring out your dead ' has an intro which may not be quite as unique as some of the other tracks although this is melodic and memorable, the one you will find yourself whistling over and over. Tune into Carter's now distinctive vocal charms over the intricate and wise workings of hi-energy guitars.

' More ' is a masterpiece.The mind blowingly deceptive and versatile Chapman Stick is used on the intro and we are treated to the full range of Carter's ambiguous voice as he presents emotionally sensual falsetto redolent of ' Thom Yorke ' on 'High and Dry' twinned with a fiery hoarseness as he implores for more. A musical arrangement that does incredible justice to this intense and fiery, memorable ballad.

The Van Demon are here to stay, there is talk of multi - media interaction incorporating animated 3D characters of the band for use in videos, live shows and playstation games. These guys think big. Live gigs (The Bull & Gate 10.06.02) and more tracks are next on the agenda. We should welcome them with open arms and open minds. In the words of David Carter "just give me some more".............