Only 3 years in the making and ‘The Hotel Ambush’ are already showing signs of things to come. Condemned is a 7 track mini album that displays the bands ability to combine heavy, memorable riffs, balls to the wall aggression, catchy, distinctive choruses and sleek, stylish solos. Echoes (from within) and Cutting the Tie’s become instant favourites. Dreaming is a 2 minute acoustic belter and the gang vocals of No More Second Chances blend with the beatdowns perfectly.
Admittedly the band do very little in terms of bringing something new to the table, this style has been done over and over by countless other bands. But, what The Hotel Ambush do, is excel in every field. The riffs are pounding; the choruses are memorable yet slightly off kilter, and the overall production is faultless. Song structures are perfectly thought out and each song is as strong as the next, for a debut effort, you couldn’t ask for anything more.
Lasting a mere 25 minutes and showcasing all of the bands talent within the 7 songs, it will be interesting to see how the band fares with a full length album. Will the consistency continue or can we expect some filler? Only time will tell. Suffice to say that The Hotel Ambush have enough potential to challenge the other jewels of the already sparkling British crown. Watch out for this band during 2011, we’re expecting something good.
Rating: 4.5/5
For Fans of: As I Lay Dying, Your Demise and All That Remains
