EP Review: Wax on Water – Ghouls & Fiends and In-Betweens… (Howling Tempest Records / The Orchard)

Wax on Water are Maya Damaris and Steven Blessing – an alternative rock duo from London, who draw inspiration from a range of genres. Fusing elements from electronica, metal, grunge, goth and industrial music. Their new five-track EP ‘Ghouls & Fiends and In-Betweens…’ will be released on the 14th of October 2022 through Howling Tempest Records / The Orchard.

Having some fun with the season, Wax on Water’s unique style is used to craft a tongue in cheek horror EP. One with playful tunes, lamentable moments and plenty of rock and roll groove. All wrapped up in a dark tone.

Something that is acutely prevalent on the radio-friendly Ghouls & Fiends. The finger-snapping guitar rhythm, the kitschy old-school effects and ethereal vocals making an impression.

Told from the perspective of a vampire and inspired by the 1935 Bela Lugosi film ‘Mark of the Vampire’, Guanciale (Mark of the Vampire) has a catchy eeriness to it. A track with fangs, the blood that Wax on Water draw is liberating. Before the fun factor of this EP is ramped up with the psychedelic Deadbeat Guy and Part of Me changes the tone by being something quite haunting.

It’s something more energised, but with the eclectic elements that makes Wax on Water so listenable, heavily present to close out the EP. More Than I, a track that has growing shadows but thanks to a peppy beat and powerful vocals, they are kept at bay.

Wax on Water – Ghouls & Fiends and In-Betweens… Full Track Listing:

1. Ghouls & Fiends
2. Guanciale (Mark of the Vampire)
3. Deadbeat Guy
4. Part of Me
5. More Than I

Links

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter