REVIEW: Delaney 'A Small Remaining Quantity of Something'
Northern New Hampshire natives Delaney first sparkled on to the pop-punk/alternative music scene in 2016, with dreams of making a dent in the music genre and carving their unique path to greatness that fans would remember. Delaney proved they had a unique and ear-grabbing sound with the release of Kites Without A String, a dazzling EP that created a soundscape of captivating hooks, immersive guitar work, profound lyricism, and enveloping rhythms. Kites Without A String's organic sound would create waves for their next and newest EP release this year, A Small Remaining Quantity of Something which debuted June 26th.
The EP starts with a breezy and beautifully put together opening track "The Ghost Of Better Times." With sun-soaked guitar riffs, entrancing piano work, and lively percussive elements, it’s a calm yet robust experience for what's to come on the rest of A Small Remaining Quantity of Something.
Ambient, echoing guitar work and vocals coats the next track "Busy Hands." Though the start of this experience is serene, it effortlessly merges into a kinetic burst of guitar riffs and vigorous drum work, sewing together a perfect mix of spry and reposeful elements to prepare us for the golden track of the EP "Thief."
"Thief" is where the lyricism and vocal presence are at their finest. Stratified vocals intermingling with deliciously crafted harmonies and brilliant use of atmospheric eventide instrumentals create one of the best melodic highlights on the EP bar none.
While "Thief" is a beautiful track, "Broken" also stands out among the rest. Quite easily one of the most gravid tracks on A Small Remaining Quantity of Something, it's an intense guitar and drum experience compared to its counterparts. While an unexpected twist, it shows the band is capable of treading on harder territories should the opportunity arise for future projects.
We then come to the gorgeous closing track "Do You Want To Be Afraid." With zesty guitar riffs, bouncy piano keystrokes, and reverberating drums, it is the perfect ending to a fantastic listening experience that will leave fans replaying this over and over again for a long time.
A Small Remaining Quantity of Something is a small EP that packs a big punch. With the ingenious use of multiple genres, instrumental creativity, and use of brightly layered vocals throughout, this EP is going to get Delaney some much-needed attention, as this isn't a band anyone should sleep on any time soon.