EP Review: Surtsey new brand of Americana on Nothing Doing

Surtsey are an intriguing band with a sound that feels like the kissing cousin to a number of different sounds. You’ll hear some countrified steel guitar, some great folksy acoustic guitar, and poetic singer songwriter style lyrics. The sound comes together for something we’ll call Americana and the new EP Nothing Doing highlights the versatility of this quality band.

“Stick” is the opening, complete with the soaring steel guitar at the heart of the song. The overall vibe of the track feels a bit like folk rock with a country twist. The vocal harmonies on the bridge are really nice on this one.

“Knot to Force” feels a bit like an Isbell tune in terms of phrasing. I imagine that was an intentional decision. The sparing production in the opening works well. Once the rest of the band enters with vocal harmonies, it definitely feels like a more forceful track. The lyric about that turn around from Sunday night to Monday morning hits hard.

The third track “T-Shirt/Avalanche” has a distinctly different vocal style to it, more at the top of the upper register it’s almost falsetto. What I like about this track is the way the tempo and steel guitar make it feel almost like a bluegrass tune… yet it also has the feel of a western swing track. That mix of styles makes it stand out from the rest of the album.

The penultimate track “Useful” has an ethereal vibe that’s sure to appeal to more contemplative fans. The solo vocal in the opening reminds me a bit of an artist we’ve featured around here by the name of Darryl Rahn. It’s got a chill, emotional element to it that invites the listener to connect with what it feels like to be “ineffably alone.”

The final track “Barley and Cherries” might actually be my favorite on the whole EP. It’s got a calm energy to it that just hits right. The string work is inviting and almost intimate compared to other tracks on the EP. The understated vocal feels more like sitting around a campfire with friends rather than being at a music show. The quality of the vocal harmonies on this one feels genuine and meaningful.

If you’re a fan of acoustic Americana music, there’s a lot to like about the quality guitar, steel guitar, and vocal work on Nothing Doing, the latest EP by Surtsey.

Image courtesy: Chris Bauer


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