Album Review : “Amiss” by Aryiss

Better late than never after my laptop died the same day as my car and the washing machine, here is my review of this wonderful debut by one of our own – Jordan Ayriss. “Amiss” opens with a well-used format, an air raid siren. But not you’re bog standard one, but one he has added to with beats and samples to freshen it up.

“Thunderhead” is the first “proper” track on here, beginning with dare I suggest a clubby vibe. The reverb vocal hints at early 80’s with the accompanying sampling before giving way to a more Pop/Punk verse that hints at many a band of that genre. “Voices” is more of the same with a more coherent and powerful vocal. I’m reminded of “30 Seconds to Mars” but one could cite any number of influences. Powerful beats, subtle sampling and a balanced vocal. The song changes direction briefly after the bridge but soon returns to where it left off, with an interesting conclusion.

“Chillglitch” is quite a departure from its three predecessor’s with yet more experimentation. “James Haynes” lends a heartfelt and pained vocal accompaniment to proceedings as Jordan allows the listener to enjoy his experimentation. The 80’s returns on “The Belt” with a Poppy beat and a powerful riff running throughout. The chorus is anthemic while the song comes to life after the initial beats. It’s layered and the slow/fast, mild/heavy formula works so well. “Carry On” begins all atmospheric – more samples greet the listener before a muffled vocal kicks in – accompanied by some subtle chimes. Yet more dance beats take it to a different level reminding me of underground “club” music with a difference. Those beats then take the song to a powerful conclusion.

“Grigori” as a working title left me curious, it’s Greek and translates as “Watchers”! Translations aside this sample-led track has an Electro vibe and muffled vocal effects. I’m reminded this time of Linkin Park with the prominence of the echoey sample and vocal. Clear and audible throughout, slow in places but occasionally speeding up. “It’s All OK” has a futuristic intro which reminds me of film score music. Soon it speeds up before the vocal takes over while the simple beat in the background holds the song together. I’m reminded of fellow South Coast Indie/Rockers “Broken Links” and the fadeout is a clever touch.

“Losing Touch” stays in a similar vein – I’m guessing it’s a personal song. There’s a certain honesty within the lyrics; softer, mellower even.

Leo Wild’s rapping excerpt gives a different dimension that freshens things up somewhat. I’m not entirely sure it fits, but it keeps things interesting and offers opportunities for experimentation in the live arena maybe? “Relax” is altogether bouncier in the intro, carrying on throughout. The chorus rises again getting heavier and the layered vocal works well. Maybe a song of frustration or just an ode to one’s simplest annoyances. The keys/samples in the background are great while the song explodes into life at the end.

I cannot praise this young man’s talents enough. Not content to be just the guitarist in the towns (IMO) leading Punk band, Jordan has practised hard and the fruits of his labours now shine through. Produced almost entirely by himself he displays a maturity beyond his years. In a world where celebrity is king, it’s great to see a local young artist doing things on his own terms. Not since Adam Scholey has I been this enthusiastic about an emerging talent and having now witnessed him live, I am enthused even more. And while I won’t predict world domination, it would be great to see his music reach a new audience.

Track Listing
Intro
Thunderhead
Voices
Chillglitch
The Belt
Carry On
The Grigori
It’s All OK
Losing Touch
Relax

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