HEYTESBURG are a band unlike anything you’ve ever heard before, and their debut EP From ‘The River I Come To The Desert I Go’ is conclusive proof of this. Their music is atmospheric and ethereal with nary a distorted guitar to be found. There’s also a considerable Eastern touch with simulations of sitars and other non-Western instruments used throughout which gives an interesting extra dimension.

Although there are only three songs on this EP, all of them are worth the price of entry. ‘The Watcher’ is a good showcase for singer/guitarist, Nicholas Gardiner’s falsetto vocals. It moves along quickly with Benn Palmer’s pounding drum beats and Gardiner’s spiky guitars licks. ‘To Walk Where David Walks’ continues with the use of Eastern instrumentation – as well as more intricate and technically driven guitar work from Gardiner. Finally, track ‘Once Were Kings’ displays a darker side to the band showing off the haunting sounds of the bands Keyboardist, Patrick McGinty. It starts off quiet, then builds up and accelerates to full throttle with Gardiner’s ferocious guitar playing. Not to mention featuring some truly incredible drumming from Palmer.

Ultimately, Heytesburg have broken out of the mould to become something fresh all on they’re own. They’ve proven that you can play menacing music without having to pound nails into listener’s skulls. Their unique use of Eastern instrumentation creates a sound that is not particularly common. And that makes for some very enticing tunes. Anyone looking for a band with something different to offer look no further.

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