Hope Of The States – ‘Blood Meridian EP’ (Sony BMG) Released 03/04/06

Finally Hope Of The States return after almost two years awol with their limited edition EP showcasing their first new material since 2004. ‘Blood Meridian’ is a pressing attack on the listener, confusing at first as Herlihey’s voice sounds very different, yet just as effective as a bomb squad with its massive chorus and consistently haunting, violent attitude. HOTS have tightened their sound with this release which is obviously going to be a radio favourite much like ‘The Red The White The Black The Blue’ was. ‘Blood Meridian’ is obviously taken from their more straightforward catalogue as guitars shoot rather than swarm, drums attack rather than soothe, and Herlihey’s lyrics accuse, very different to their sonic progressions akin to ‘Black Dollar Bills’ etc. With three non-album tracks illustrating the more experimental side to the band, it is a window as to what new album ‘Left’ holds. It is a fantastic return to form and a forewarning of the year to come.