Wigan Noise trio Mower are building up an impressive live following in the Northwest of England and have self-released their first 4-track EP Meathead.

‘Tundra #64′ starts the proceedings and is thick with a wall of heavy sludge riffs. Mowers sound has a heavy and hypnotic groove which is enough to get the head nodding along within 30 seconds.

Considering the trio consists of a single guitar, drums and vocals it’s surprising just how fleshed out the sound is. For a single guitar there’s an imposing amount of low-end on display, coupled with a tighter integration with the riffs and the drums which really does add depth to the tracks.

‘Itchy Healing Skin’ is the shortest track and more accessible, although the accessibility does give it a feel that the riffs here are a bit more standard than elsewhere. The gurgling vocals however are delivered with some real vitriol. The last 40 seconds have an almost thrash feel to them do a great job of taking you from the stupor you’re probably in by this point.

‘Big Doris’ once again demonstrates that Mower are experimenting with their sound within the genre and features massive monolithic riffs. Doris is rough and ready with a raw feel to her. Like a derelict building at midnight, it’s fearsome with a complex beauty and whiff of danger.

‘Ursula’ is the standout track on the EP with a very strong vocal performance a shuffling beat with big bombastic riffs and yet more display of those awesome sludgy riffs. There’s a real feeling of purpose about this recording, a palpable energy with the guitar and drums working so well together, which you can’t help but get caught up in. A very strong vibe to the recording this is a very solid début from Mower, it hints at some serious potential.

8.0/10

RICH PRICE