Four tracks of cutting edge space rock is what Stoke-based Shallow offer us as a follow up to their split single with Jayne Doe. Damn fine it is too. Coming on like a more streamlined, more focussed (less stoned?) version of Acrimony (some compensation following the Welsh wizards' disbandment) Shallow emerge as genuine UK stoner contenders with this release.

Lead track, "Eight Minutes to the Sun" introduces the band with some tribalistic drumming, feeding into a humming riff not unlike a more hardcore QOTSA. This is followed by "Neon Tee Pee" with its down beat atmospherics and melodic interludes. "Happy when I woke up this morning" sings Tony S. Inskip. So was I when I found this CD in my mail. Third track, "Something Unusual" moves from a swirling, reflective yet still super heavy verse into an up tempo chorus with great effect. Finally we have "Sugar Glider"which is possibly the strongest track here, again bringing to mind the dynamics of a Josh Homme composition.

All in all a great E.P. and well worth your time. Shallow are clearly a band to watch out for in the future. Roll on the next release. (8)

For further info check www.undergroove.co.uk/shallow

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