Heavy Rapids – Cash In Hand EP

Due to the success of IDLES, Shame and, more recently, Fontaines D.C., it seems we can expect an oncoming slew of UK-based post-punk bands. There isn't an issue with this, per se, as guitar music on these shores has suffered quite a drought compared to last decade's flood of "landfill" indie rock. Inevitably, however, as the record label execs desperately search for the next IDLES, much as they scrambled to find the next Arctic Monkeys, there will be more generic examples emerging.

It's too early to paint Glasgow's Heavy Rapids with the same brush, as their debut EP Cash In Hand is the workings of a young band still finding their feet. There is, at least, enough variation and distinction between tracks to show their potential, while tackling hard-hitting subjects such as gang violence and drug abuse from guitarist Jamie Crawford's hometown on Paisley Pattern. Equally, Going Down is a catchy enough track, with singer Dillon Squire's strained vocals a particular highlight.

However, there's nothing in particular on Cash In Hand that you won't have heard elsewhere already. It's a relatively safe debut in terms of songwriting and production – all the familiar beats are present. The potential for something great is there, however, making them ones to watch.

Listen to: Paisley Pattern, Going Down, Infected Nightmares (Frankenstein)