aaamusic | On 25, Mar 2012

“Crushing Blows” may sound like a professional wrestling team, however it is in fact the moniker for indie duo Chris Jones and Andrew Foster.  Crushing Blows have a layered sound that is surprisingly loud seen as they only have 2 members. However Jones and Foster both juggle multiple parts and make use of loop pedals to give their songs a full, intense sound.

“Hiding Place” is taken from their self titled debut EP and is accompanied with their first ever music video directed by Mark Duggan. This track is an up tempo tune with crashing drums, raspy vocals and jagged guitar interjections. The lyrics at times become difficult to make out when vocalist Chris Jones ascends into his falsetto voice, however this technique gives the song an interesting retro 80s alternative vibe.

B-side “You Will Always Be Lonely” is a fitting accompaniment to this single. The raging guitar riffs provide a syncopated base for the melody that gives the song a unique rhythmic twist. The electronic touches throughout are in keeping with Crushing Blows general sound.

 

Orna Lyons