Once more into the breach, dear friends. Reviewing sometimes feels like being an unwilling participant in a war that can never be won although I’m not sure why that depressing thought crossed my mind as I was formulating an opinion on “White Nights” by A Shocking True Story. After all, it wasn’t a particularly depressing EP.
Whilst Vanessa Montilla and Daniel Berges – the core components of the band – don’t stray far from what you would expect of an alt-rock band, they at least demonstrate that they have the courage of their convictions and, whilst they are at it, add a European dash of style to the three songs on the EP. “When The Sun Goes Down” is perhaps the weakest song here and it seems to lose its way before the time comes for the guitar solo. “The Rain” betrays a certain lack of adventure and discipline. Not that it is bad just that A Shocking True Story sound like any rock band borne of the New York melting pot on this one. “Misbehave”, however, raises the bar noticeably. The guitars seem to occupy their proper place, the drums snap out of their previous awkwardness and Vanessa Montilla’s vocals gain a true sense of purpose. It’s a proper rock song, pure and simple.
The EP is available as a free download from Jamendo.