The Upper Hand - The Upper Hand EP 
Release Date: Out Now
Devon collective the Upper Hand released this EP earlier in the year but it has only just come to my attention and I was impressed that I just had to share it with you all. The seven track collection gets going with the circular groove of 'Josephine' that takes its sweet time to settle down and let the licks do the talking before a unique and funky vocal joins in. On 'Questions' the Torquay lads take things down a notch for a more laid back track which shows off some deft drumming while 'Tempest' makes the most of a spacious guitar riff to create a vibe that is part Red Hot Chili Peppers and part the Weeknd but with Incubus guitars.
The soft start to 'Fill The Space' reminds me of Ed Sheeran's first album and the rapid vocal delivery cements that sound but 'Mistakes' sounds like the kind of song Dua Lipa would turn into a worldwide smash given her platform and fan base. The really intriguing thing about the Upper Hand is that they seem to be operating on a couple of levels - the West Coast guitar band influence is strong but there's a British pop sensibility that gives their sound a really infectious twist and that combination makes them a really hot prospect as a band and/or as a song writing force for other artists.
Penultimate track and former single 'Bottle Of Pain (BOP)' takes us on a more bluesy, rootsy journey with guitars that would grace the Louisiana dive bar and a build that is so steady that it just can't be denied. The EP closes out on 'Stargazer' which initially sounds like a ponderous, sad end to the affair but actually turns into the kind of funky set closer that demands one last dance from your tired legs. A really interesting, creative and intriguing band who have the talent and opportunity to head off in a number of directions so definitely ones worth keeping an eye on.
More information: https://www.facebook.com/TheUpperHandMusic/