Make Do And Mend – Part and Parcel EP
Record Label: Paper + Plastick Records
Release Date: November 22, 2011
As if The Wave needed to provide any further proof of their takeover of the hardcore scene throughout 2011, Make Do And Mend have completed the puzzle with their new acoustic EP Part and Parcel. Being the antithesis of the rigid End Measured Mile, this EP shines light on the other side of the heavy band – now allowing focus to be on James Carroll’s vocal range and prowess.
First and foremost, fans will notice the departure from the normal Make Do And Mend sound with the acoustic versions of familiar songs – gone is the gravel-laden near-scream vocal delivery; welcomed is the country-tinged style. The result of this change really carries these songs to a different level, evident due to the range of Carroll on the opening “Unknowingly Strong.” “Ghostal” demonstrates the country-tinged roots that have replaced the normal hardcore mien throughout the EP, with Southern guitar plucks carrying the track.
The most vulnerable moment on Part and Parcel comes within Make Do And Mend’s cover of their friends in Touche Amore’s “Home Away From Here.” Being one of the most cathartic tracks – and records for that matter – of the year, this song was an interesting choice for this project; however, the acoustic rendition of it will be incredibly pleasing for fans, as Carroll’s Southern drawl adds a different layer of intricate emotion to the song – noted especially within the last minute. The untitled new song fits alongside the other five tracks delightfully, following “Home Away From Here” in fitting fashion due to the incredibly candid lyrics. The song clearly hints that Make Do And Mend will continue to the follow The Wave on their upcoming record, embedding agonizing honesty into the record.
Allowing the other side of Make Do And Mend to be heard, Part and Parcel truly allows the talent of the guys to prevail and be heard, as the beauty is within the versatility here. Carroll clearly has an interesting and effective vocal range, leaving fans very anxious for whatever direction Make Do plan to go with their upcoming full length next year. Until then, this EP and End Measured Mile will still gladly tide fans over.
If you take away the first paragraph, it's a decent review. I've never heard MDAM called a hardcore band before and you refer to "The Wave" way too much.
Anyway EP is great, really like how the songs sound acoustic.
If you take away the first paragraph, it's a decent review. I've never heard MDAM called a hardcore band before and you refer to "The Wave" way too much.
Anyway EP is great, really like how the songs sound acoustic.
Great EP. I was a little disappointed with the cover of Coats at first, but now I just love the whole thing. People need to get over it being called The Wave.
Browse Reviews
Write a Review
Alphabetized Listing
Popular Reviews
Best New Music
View Artist Profile
View News Articles
Stream the Music
Buy the Album or MP3s
View Blog
View Signature
Posts: 25,906
View Profile Picture
Follow This Review
More Reviews By This Author