If you have never listened to the Revolution Smile before, you must have certainly heard of the name, considering that the band's frontman Shaun Lopez used to play guitar in one of, if not the best and most underrated bands of our time, Far. While Far's disbanding was undoubtedly one of the most sad episodes to happen in music in recent times, if we make some effort and look at it from another angle, we'll notice that it also had it's good aspects, after all four new good bands were born: Jonah's "Onelinedrawing" and "New End Original", Chris and John's "Milwaukee" and Shaun's "the Revolution Smile".

If you're going to listen to the Revolution Smile's music expecting something like a Far #2, though, let me be the first to warn you that besides sharing the same guitar player, the two bands have absolutely nothing in common. While this at first may sound as a disappointment for some, or even to most of you, I am sure that, as you listen to the Revolution Smile's music, the disappointment will turn into surprise, and consequently, satisfaction.

In a time when Limp Bizkit's and KoRn's wannabe's pop up in every corner every 5 seconds, there's nothing more refreshing than listening to a good band that was never touched by such music. Instead, the Revolution Smile goes back to the early - mid 90's and gets their influences from bands such as Nirvana, Quicksand, earlier Smashing Pumpkins, and Foo Fighters, blending it all together into one unique product that, while it may not be anything groundbreaking, is definitely talented and pleasant to the ears.

The music itself, carries a strong grunge vibe along the lines of early Foo Fighters material mixed with Nirvana's intensity. At certain moments, a Smashing Pumpkins resemblance can also be noticed in the band's darker and heavier passages. Shaun's vocals are surprisingly interesting and often aided by effects, bringing to mind Dave Grohl's most serene moments, while his screams have a Kurt Cobain similarity, but perhaps a little bit more tuned. A touch of rawness can be noticed on the EP, but in a good sense, sounding honest rather than simply the lack of tightness. Obviously, though, the band is still taking their baby steps, and this is noticeable throughout this release. Most of the songs don't sound as tight as they could and, even though there are no major problems on them, some work could be done here and there.

On the other hand, what is also noticeable and 100% praiseworthy, is the fact that the band is really looking forward to playing what they like and want, instead of following any current trends, considering that the Revolution Smile's "dirty" grunge used to be all the rage back in the early 90's, and is now long forgotten by the mainstream media. Still, this band's music is so fresh and pleasant to listen to that, who knows, it might even revive the grunge side that some of us may have put to rest as time passes by.

Overall, the material presented on this 6 song EP is filled with potential and energy, and couldn't reach the scene at a better moment: when people are starting to notice how saturated the current new metal scene is, and are slowly trying to find new paths to satisfy their musical needs. Either way, one thing is certain: the Revolution Smile's music is sure to put a big smile on your face. From ear to ear.
(4 / 5)