Set forth to the world in 2018, this EP from Northern Ireland rockers Rosco’s Riot titled Yesterday’s Paradise is a very interesting piece of work indeed. It is the second album from them, with two years in between.
So, Yesterday’s Paradise consists of six tracks combining a heady mix of Deep South bluesy rock and metal influence. Think Black Crowes and Black Stone Cherry with a hint of Skid Row. I’d say, musically, these guys would be just at home in New Orleans as well as Belfast.
Opening track “Bound to Hell” starts off with soft guitar leading into a heavy crunching slice of pure head banging metal. Vocally superb, complemented by seriously well put together riffs and percussion, this track really sets the scene for what is to come. “War” comes at you at full pelt and doesn’t disappoint throughout, flipping huge guitars and a drum beat that won’t let up, all smothered in Tim’s raspy vocals is an absolute joy to listen to.
“Only One” is a huge, near 10-minute track of two halves. The first coming in the form of Deep South blues rock full of heartache sodden vocals, “Time does nothing for the pain, it doesn’t go away, it just hides its face”, the second part of the track coming in off the bridge at 5 minutes is a full-on metal slab of hard-hitting riffs and incredible presence. This track would not be out of place on any Black Stone Cherry album. Yes, it’s long but once that last note is done, it leaves you wanting more.
“Little Darling” has a more metal feel to it, Skid Row in essence, particularly from the first notes, (think “Mudkicker”). Full of face melting riffs and beats, this one is pure headbanging heaven. “Fate” comes at you much more blues oriented at the start, filtering into harder rock guitar work, it is Black Crowes in soul, but much heavier, the band really showcase their talent with this one. Guitar riffs and solos are defined and generous to a fault.
Titular and final offering “Yesterday’s Paradise” is not as hard-hitting as the rest of the album. That said it’s a groove-laden, thoughtful and uniquely interesting piece, in parts giving off a hint of GnR that pulls the whole EP together perfectly.
Having seen them live I have to say they sound as good in a small box in the car or in a larger box at home as they do on stage. Do yourself a favour and get your ears around these guys, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
In short, this EP is a triumph in all aspects, giving the band the justice they deserve. I wait with bated breath for the next journey Rosco’s Riot take me on. I can only finish this review by urging you to get your copy of this and playing it until you are bored of it, sometime around the year 3000.
The band are:
- Tim Knox – Guitar & Vocals
- James Quinn – Bass
- Andy Brown – Guitar
- Craig Taylor – Drums
Rosco’s Riot: facebook | soundcloud | youtube
