Youngblood Hawke: Self-Titled EP

Genre: Indie rock/Maximalist pop

Origin: Los Angeles, California

Record Label: Universal Republic

Band Members: Nik Hughes, Alice Katz, Simon Katz, Sam Martin, and Tasso Smith.

Youngblood Hawke is an American indie pop-rock band from Los Angeles, California. This up-and-coming band is composed of drummer Nik Hughes, backing vocalist and percussionist Alice Katz, guitarist Simon Katz, vocalist Sam Martin, and bassist Tasso Smith. The band’s name derives from the 1961 Herman Wouk novel of the same name.

The band has released their first self-titled EP in 2012. The four-track EP contains the single, “We Come Running", which was featured on MTV. In a 20 questions (www.popmatters.com) interview with Sam Martin, he had described the band’s music as a “narration of their lives". They are currently on tour with Passion Pit.

"We Come Running": "We Come Running" is the first track on this four-song EP. The song features a crescendo in to heavier pop beat at the chorus, and a children’s choir. This song has catchy lyrics, a fun beat to dance to, and a strong tenor voice leading the way. The theme of the song is about taking chances, and not waiting any longer. And the music video is shot in the ocean with sharks, which is always fantastic ;D.

"Stars (Hold On)": "Stars (Hold On)" is the next track on this EP. This song starts off with some orchestral strings, and that element is laced throughout the entirety of the song. Once again, the children’s choir sings at the chorus, as well as other parts of the song. The theme of the song is to not give up, and that things will get better. While I really enjoyed this song, I am starting to notice a trend with the beat and chorus styles.

"Forever": "Forever" is the third song on Youngblood Hawke’s EP. The song includes guitars, bass, synthesizers and drums. It is one of two songs on the EP that doesn’t include the children’s choir. This song is a little different than the last two songs, as its verses are catchier than the chorus. The theme of this song is love, as well as not leaving someone. This song was used as the Starbucks Pick of the Week in September.

"Rootless": "Rootless" is the final track on the band’s debut EP. The song starts out with normal band instruments, including bass guitar and drums. This song also doesn’t include the children’s choir. The lyrics are filled with fun imagery and similes that make this song unique. The theme of the song is freedom, but also being pulled towards someone.

The Youngblood Hawke EP is filled with well-written lyrics, a fantastic children’s choir, sensational male vocals, and fun instruments that leave you wanting more. The full-length album is scheduled to be released this year, and I can already tell that it will be successful.

Youngblood Hawke EP: 9.6/10