The Sun Did Not Shine EP Review

Alternative metal in Wellington is not a dying scene; in fact, it’s very much alive when you have local act, Needless Cane and the release of their latest offering, The Sun Did Not Rise. This seven track EP brings that heavy, yet melodic sound that conjures up instant dark imagery and blackness, before swiftly bringing a strong industrial sound that finishes off the last three tracks.

The opening track, Death Of The War Machine is a crunchy laced riff, mingled with vocalist, Needless Cane (aka, Blake) bleak monotone which fits perfectly with the heavy chorus. Although unique, I can’t help but notice huge chunks of Marilyn Manson, Rammstein and Nine Inch Nails influences on a number of tracks; a positive, not a negative when you hear the bands upcoming single, Hemlock Lemonade. Consistent and ripe with melody, it’s throbbing with massive riffs and delivers head banging action guaranteed, not to mention the totally cool song title itself.

Poppies is a slightly softer shade while the chorus lurches in an almost comedic high pitched vocal of ‘Poppies for you! Poppies for me! A favourite sing along at live gigs no doubt! A different twist is the piano version of Hemlock Lemonade, sung by female vocalist, Ruby James, as she brings a unique and beautiful element to the song. Although not a perfect pitch for the beautiful piano arrangement, it somehow works to still capture the listeners.

The remaining tracks are all remix version of Hemlock Lemonade, and not for the faint hearted. A full sound of industrial and dub step overtones takes the lead for these tracks, slightly strange to hear first time round on the end of an otherwise decidedly heavy sound, but it all blends together to make it work.