Covela: Covela EP

Covela

Best Song: If there is one song on the EP that sounds like the band chugging along while Drinkwine carries them, then it is "Time." The song sounds most like a cross between a few of their influences, namely Muse and Paramore. Does it help that the song's lyric "Time is running out / Make a difference and make it now" sounds quite similar to Muse's 2003 hit single "Time Is Running Out?" I'll go ahead and say yes to that. It's not necessarily Absolution-era Muse, however -- the song sounds more geared after the band's latest album The Resistance. There are sweeping guitar riffs and space-influenced keys complete with Drinkwine's best vocal effort, by far.

Worst Song: "Better" is the band's de facto power ballad -- the more toned down, emotional song of the EP. While it is an interesting change of pace, the song comes off a bit half-assed and, unfortunately, Drinkwine's vocals feel a bit restrained. It's a shame, too, because she really lets loose on "Time" and the results are rather enjoyable. However, I understand that not all of the songs can be grandiose, earth-shattering rock songs -- you have to throw in a few heartfelt power jams in there, too.

Suggestions: Don't hold back your most talented member. Let Sarah Drinkwine rock it out on every song and just murder it with what I believe to be the band's most intriguing aspect -- her vocal style. Sure, no one knows who the hell the other members in Paramore are, outside of Hayley Williams, but I hardly think that matters. Who's to say that Covela can't achieve the same level of success? They have the blueprint down.

Grade: B-