Tailblock – “Think Or Be” [EP] [Album Review]

At the end of 2016, Tailblock released their debut EP, Burn Your Bridges, blending a unique mix of post-hardcore and emo with alternative rock to very good effect. After numerous shows supporting their debut EP, and plaudits from broadcasters including BBC Introducing, the three-piece from Dartford, Kent are now ready to release their sophomore EP, Think Or Be.

The album kicks off with the title track, displaying a safe heavy rock sound which although has attitude, is designed to appeal firmly to the mainstream. This then continues with the somewhat similar-sounding “Heavy Arms” and “Rocket” which blend snappy, bright guitar work with clear, powerful vocals from the very impressive Gary Plaszek, bringing to mind bands such as Jimmy Eat World, Hundred Reasons and Rival Schools. With Ian Sadler (Anavae, Roam) handling production duties this doesn’t come as much surprise, and at times with such a dense production you do forget that this is only a 3-piece.

It’s only the second half of Think Or Be on tracks such as “Blisters” and “Listen” when the post-hardcore vibe – which was noticeably more evident on Burn Your Bridges – kicks in. Things get musically more interesting, groovier and certainly heavier, whilst still keeping it light enough to appeal to the masses. Ending the EP with the acoustic “100” is a slight disappointment, after feeling like this EP was just taking off, but for an emerging band from Britain aiming to appeal to a wide audience, Think Or Be may not be memorable, but it is a worthy listen.

Think Or Be Track Listing:

01. Think Or Be
02. Heavy Arms
03. Rocket
04. Blisters
05. Listen
06. 100

Run Time: 19:31
Release Date: July 13, 2018
Record Label: Independent

You can view the official video for “Heavy Arms” below.