EP Review: Step Behind

South Wairarapa’s Featherston has produced something young, fresh, and exciting with Feddy Fedz, a collective determined to merge commercial, catchy pop with harder-edged lyrics and messages. Triple G (lead vocals and raps), Poppy (lead vocals, brass), Rocky le Tardeau (raps and percussion), Victor Aloha (DJ and raps), Bitey (guitars and bass), and Argon (lead vocals, raps and keys) make up the lineup, and together they’ve crafted a sound that feels raw but ambitious, aiming for both dance floors and headphones.

Feddy Fedz’ EP kicks off with Step Behind, leaning into an old-school, early dance groove. A steady drumbeat and bass anchor the track while vocals glide over with touches of jazz phrasing. Raps weave in and out like sampled fragments, and a guitar solo idea pushes the track into new territory. The mix is loud and occasionally distorts, but whether intentional or not, it adds to the rough-around-the-edges aesthetic.

These Broken Dreams shifts gears with a brighter, more upbeat pop vibe. The production is noticeably cleaner, with tighter timing and sharper vocals. It’s here the band shows their knack for hooks that feel tailor-made for a wider audience.

Third track Hold Me (I Wonder Why) brings the grit back, with edgier drums and rap verses laid over clean pop vocals. The chorus is big and memorable, driven by a funky guitar riff that locks perfectly with the bass. It’s one of the EP’s highlights, showcasing the band’s ability to fuse styles while keeping things accessible.

Second Chance mirrors the pop sheen of These Broken Dreams, but this time with a male lead vocal stepping forward, adding variety and balance to the EP.

Closing track Eternity Was All I Had ties the release together with a smooth bass line and airy synth pads under the verses. Halfway through, trap-style hi-hats break in, and another guitar solo appears, keeping the energy up while hinting at the band’s wide range of influences.

This debut is bold in its variety and at times raw, at times polished, but always energetic. It captures a band at the start of their journey, already unafraid to cross genres and chase big ideas.