‘Nice’ isn’t a word that comes up very often when reviewing rock bands but it’s a perfect description for Hercules Morse. Mixing the bluesy guitar of Kyuss with the sort of easy-going vocals normally associated with British Indie groups, the Southampton four piece are a great big hug of a band. They manage to rock out while being warmly comforting and unthreatening and there isn’t an uptight conservative in the world who would object to this five track EP. Part of this is down to the smooth buttery voice of frontman Steve George who sings in an altogether pleasant way. There’s no screaming or aggression and if the rest of the music were stripped away, his vocal lines could be used to soothe kittens to sleep. Even on the most aggressive track – the opening ‘Asleep At The Wheel’ – he’s a kind and welcoming leader, so despite all the distorted power chords and fuzzed up leads, Hercules Morse aren’t going to offend anyone. This may make it sound like they’re a band to miss but even with this friendly vibe running through their music, Hercules Morse are well worth checking out. There’s no hope whatsoever of them appealing to fans of Despised Icon, but aside from one misstep, ‘Equine Size Comparison’ is really rather good. ‘The Boss’ for example is a bass-heavy slice of groove-rock. There’s some serious Josh Homme worship going on and it’s upbeat enough to put Eeyore in a good mood.
Third song ‘Nobody’s Fool’ is the weak point, being rather dull and unexciting but things pick up again with ‘Do It Right’ and only improve with the closing ‘Chemical Lullabies.’ Both of these songs are the musical equivalent of having tea and biscuits with your Nan while ‘Welcome To Sky Valley’ plays in the background and it’s very difficult not to like them. Now, nobody’s Nan is especially cool but let’s face it; who doesn’t like hanging out with nice people occasionally?
Hercules Morse are loaded with good times, big riffs and are just a pleasant band to spend time with. Don’t expect to see them on the Brutal Assault Festival line-up any time soon but you know that guy who enjoys Iron Maiden but can’t stand the rest of your music collection? He’d like Hercules Morse and so do we.
Released 2nd September 2016
Hercules Morse are loaded with good times, big riffs and are just a pleasant band to spend time with. Don’t expect to see them on the Brutal Assault Festival line-up any time soon but you know that guy who enjoys Iron Maiden but can’t stand the rest of your music collection? He’d like Hercules Morse and so do we.
