Single Review: Voiceless

Age of Destitute are a new band formed by Rezwan Ashraf (vocals, lead guitar) and Sammy Iqbal (rhythm guitar, bass). The duo are both originally from Bangladesh, and only met by chance here in New Zealand, and were soon jamming and trying out different ideas. They say they are inspired by Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Iron Maiden, Metallica, Dire Straits, Dream Theater, and multiple shredders, but in this single the listener would be hard-pressed to find any metal. Instead, what we have is a languorous trip, with vocals front and centre, alongside some guitar licks which are very reminiscent of Gilmour and possibly Knopfler. There are some drums, keyboards, and piano to extend the sound, but for the most part this song relies on vocals and the melodic underpinning bass, which is way more to the fore than what might be expect.

There is an understated confidence in this single, which brings together elements of crossover prog, rock, soul, and pop into something that is languid and gentle, although always effective. For some reason I had it my mind that given the name this was going to be a hardcore punk band, but nothing could be further from the truth! This is all about slow consideration, no need for brashness and over the top energy. When Rez allows himself a simple solo, it becomes a soundscape, and he sits in the pocket of the music, never driving through but allowing himself to be gently taken along.

The EP is due out at the end of May, and it will be interesting to hear if the rest of the material is like this or if they do allow themselves to rock out a little more, but as it is this is a very pleasant single indeed.