EP Review: The Sound of A Cloud

Hoodaki’s EP The Sound Of A Cloud opens with its title track and straight away you get a clear sense of who this band are. The guitars come in strong with angular chord changes that feel familiar but still fresh. There is a real sense of energy and movement as the song rises and falls, with guitar lines, bass and drums all working together rather than competing for space.

The track carries the feel of guitar driven music from years past, but it never sounds dated. Instead it sits comfortably in the modern music world, helped by a pop sensibility that keeps everything tight and focused while still rooted in rock. The recording keeps the band right up front and does a great job of capturing their energy. Vocally, Jago Byatt sounds confident and in control, with strong melodies that push the song forward. The band as a whole sounds very tight.

What really stands out is how well the song is put together. As it moves into the verse you feel like you know where it is heading, but it still manages to surprise you along the way. The chimney open style bar chords work almost like a pre chorus, and the changes in vocal melodies and harmonies help give each section its own identity. Every part feels considered. Even the guitar solo follows the vocal line rather than dropping in something unrelated. It sounds like a band enjoying the process of writing and playing together, and that comes through clearly.

That sense of togetherness is no accident. Hoodaki’s current lineup of Jago Byatt on guitar and lead vocals, Paul Burrows on bass and backing vocals, Brendan Monaghan on drums, and Leon Wilks on guitar and backing vocals sounds locked in. The two guitars add depth and texture, while the rhythm section provides a solid foundation without overplaying.

The next two tracks, Killing Time and John The Dog, are live recordings and they suit the band well. Jago Byatt’s vocals are strong and full of energy, and it is clear that Hoodaki are comfortable on stage. There is a noticeable influence from the UK guitar rock scene, with moments that bring to mind the guitar driven bands of the mid 90’s.

John The Dog opens with a solid drum beat that sets up a fun and confident riff from the rest of the band. It keeps the energy and anticipation up while leaning into its character driven lyrics. When the chorus hits, the band lifts things up another level before settling back into the flow of a well written rock song. Even in a live setting the guitar tones sound full and powerful.

The EP finishes with a radio edit of The Sound Of A Cloud, which works as a strong reminder of just how good the opening track is.

Overall, The Sound Of A Cloud is a great short EP that gives a clear picture of who Hoodaki are and what they sound like live. It feels honest, well put together, and grounded in solid musicianship. After listening to this, it is hard not to want to see the band live, and I would definitely recommend you do.