Worcester Music Forum

Host
The Host EP

Host are a Worcester funk rock and soul band who have been doing the rounds for a while and are now focussing more on their music than on their day jobs. And from the  sound of this CD they may have made the decision

Sun Go Down sees the band kick in with a funk fuelled, vocally multi octave extremely well crafted opener. It's hard to believe that these guys aren't bigger than they are. The musicianship is in the high end of the scale, the writing skills  are to be admired and the production seems to be first class.

The EP slows down slightly with Canterbury, but loses none of the passion or tunefulness of the band. Each member of Host seems to be a master of his craft and is clearly dedicated to the sound. Mash's vocals do seem a little strained at times but if you are doing multi octave delivery in the space of a couple of bars there is gonna be a bit of trouble. Over all though, an amazing track.

Deliverance takes a while to get going but when it does you are glad that you stuck around for the lyrics. A more laid back, yet jumpy track that just has to be listened to,  not just for the lyrics but for the excellent music and performance.

Gravestones is probably their best track on the album, or at least my favourite, Some tremendous vocals, superb bass and drums and the guitar is understated yet propionate . I can see Jay Kay sitting down and taking a few notes from this band.

Wake Up and the closer Making Time make this a damn fine CD, full of great tunes, vocal aerobatics, funked up bass lines, catchy chorus's and great presentation. A CD to keep in your collection and play when you're feeling subdued, lazy or lethargic. It's gonna pick you up, spin you around and get you funked. 
http://www.hostlounge.co.uk  
http://www.myspace.com/hostonline

Review by Chris Bennion