Debut EP by LA artist Poor Eeyore: 2000s rock meets grunge, emo, and indie influences.
Los Angeles based artist Poor Eeyore emerges with his debut self-titled EP, a fiery offering that defies the expectations of a debut; a solidified, intoxicating blend of 2000s alternative rock and indie.
Channeling the production of Deftones and the songwriting sensibility of early Thirty Seconds To Mars, Poor Eeyore is recognisable and indestructible.
Growing up surrounded by the raw energy of grunge, the expansive angst of emo and the lawless creativity of indie, Poor Eeyore has shaped a musical expression born of all three.
Relentless, Poor Eeyore’s debut release is certain in its efforts, and powerful in its ability to captivate. Produced by Jerrod Bettis, a founding member of OneRepublic, it’s clear that Poor Eeyore is already attracting seasoned professionals longing to be in his corner.
Diaphanous and ethereal vocals evolve into pleading, stadium rock style belts. Tackling a loss of faith and dire efforts to rekindle, Poor Eeyore shines brightly through his vulnerability.
Opening with the crunchy Flying, Poor Eeyore establishes his confidence as an artist. Unique vocal delivery, emo-inspired, self-demeaning lyrics and a thick bed of guitars introduce us to Poor Eeyore’s psyche.
At once familiar and exciting, Moontaker leans harder into the grunge and emo aspects of Eeyore’s musicality. A dynamic drum groove brings us into an explosive chorus – one that doesn’t relent nor come back down.
Once Eeyore reaches his emotional heights, he stays there, bringing us along with him without a care for whether or not we’re keeping up.
Perhaps that is a part of what makes Poor Eeyore so alluring; his ability to drag listeners through his sonic landscape with no resistance.
Stand out track Hello chugs menacingly along, simmering and spitting until it finally bubbles over. Another example of Eeyore’s vocal range and enticing quality, – vaguely reminiscent of Dallas Green – and songwriting chops.
The production soars once again, highlighting all the moments of Hello that make you feel close to levitating. Closing with Swan Song, Eeyore gives in to his heartache.
Letting his vocals become slightly more unhinged, coupled with bleak lyricism and a cyclical clean guitar riff, Swan Song hurts. When the chorus finally opens up into a crash heavy, distorted expulsion of feeling, the sense of satisfaction is sweeping.
A perfect conclusion, one that feels like a death of sorts, completes a swelling, beautiful collection.
Poor Eeyore is alight with emotion, and has found the ability to express it with an addictive, unyielding passion.
Stream the debut EP below.
Review by Caitlin Norris.
