EP Review: The Sons of Guns – You Shine the Sun

If you’re a fan of the type of folk music we typically feature on this site, you’ll definitely want to check out this new EP from The Sons of Guns. There’s a real sense of momentum to these songs, moving along with an energy that I am eager to support.

The first track “You Shine the Sun” feels like a dash of Coldplay-like pop rock with a folksy spiritual core that begins the track. As you lean into the sound, you can feel the quality of the vocal and the way the rhythmic structure keeps it moving. It feels like a song written for heading out on the road. The line about “walking each other home” reminds me of the tender calling we have as humans to journey together and love one another along the way.

“Hollywood” has a cathartic acoustic energy that provides a base for the quality tenor lead vocal. There’s a bluesy storytelling energy to the song about the sadness of self sabotage. It feels like an Eagles deep cut (and I mean that with the utmost admiration). “Freewheeler” brings a unique style to the piano and a bright poppy rock style to it. This one feels like something from the Bob Seger-style mid-century pop rock style. The line “it’s been a long time since I called you anything like home” is loaded with heartache but communicates a lot of sincerity. Also, this song might have the best vocal blending on the whole EP and that’s saying something because the vocals are solid throughout. It’s hard to say my favorite on this EP, but this is a contender for sure.

There’s an almost prayerful sincerity on “How Much I Loved Her So,” an acoustic folk tune that captures deep, heartfelt love. The vocal harmonies on this one are just delightful. It’s ultimately an expression of sadness, but it’s done quite beautifully. The following track “It’s Getting Better” shifts back toward more of a pop rock flavor. The electric guitars convey a sense more like mid-century rock acts like Cream. I appreciate the positivity of the lyrical message that things keep getting better, but there’s a tongue-in-cheek element to the writing that makes me wonder if things are actually getting better. Nevertheless, there’s a snappy joy to the song that makes it an easy listen.

The EP concludes with “Days Like These” that feels the most Americana on the album, bringing together elements of folk and what feels to me like a little hint of gospel music. The harmonies are good again here, but there’s a sort of timeless quality to the composition that feels like it brings together a lot of influences. The name that comes to mind with this sound is Jim Croce. It’s an important lyrical reminder to make the most of our days because they will just exist as memories tomorrow. There’s a real “be present” vibe to the song and I love that.

This EP has more songs that I genuinely liked than some full 12-song albums from other artists. I just can’t believe how good the full EP is from start to finish and I’m really glad that I got the chance to spend some time with it. As you can tell from the comp bands I name dropped in the review, I think this is quality work and it deserves to be widely shared. I would recommend putting this EP on for friends and family when you’re having a barbeque, just to see how people respond. I think you’ll get a lot of “hey, this is familiar… who is this?” For me, “Freewheeler” is going in my personal rotation. Dig it, fellas!