Written by: Megan Langley
Lilac Queen got their start last year with their debut single “Ouch,” and have since been making waves in the Massachusetts and Rhode Island music scenes leading up to the release of their highly anticipated and newly released debut EP, “If Only.”
Opener “Wasting Time” kicks things off with an upbeat intro with guitar riffs as catchy as the melodies that follow throughout the song. Jesse brings an impressive drum fill before the song slows down a bit for an instrumental solo to finish it out. “Cemetery Sounds” is another upbeat track, and similarly to the opener, it also instantly brings catchy riffs and drumbeats in the beginning, and shows off the emo influences as well. The chorus brings memorable melodies and harmonies, and Lily’s voice really shines on here, especially during the softer ending.
Second to last is one of my favorites on the EP, “Tar.” Each of the two vocalists get a chance to shine, from the screamed and shouted vocals Doug brings throughout the verses to the more melodic performance Lily puts on before the final chorus (which shows off her voice very well), and they both combine their talents for a huge and memorable chorus that keeps me coming back for repeated listens and has been stuck in my head since I first heard the track. “Lorna II” closes out the EP, and starts out on a softer note with the guitars and vocal harmonies in the beginning, but eventually also showcases the heavier aspects of the band’s sound, seemingly showing some hardcore influences in the guitar parts.
Lilac Queen’s debut EP is filled with tons of emotion and passion and is a powerful release overall.