Ezra Grey – ‘Afterall’ [EP] [Album Review]

Multi-instrumentalist alt-rock artist Ezra Grey has released his debut EP, Afterall, highlighted by what Grey calls “deceptively technically difficult guitar arrangements” reminiscent of metal, intertwined with jazz harmonies and hints of Latin and reggae influences.

A versatile guitarist, Grey toured Europe, and the U.S. with metal outfits GAREK, Sinaro, and Etherius. He has also toured with R&B, hip-hop, jazz, and classical bands in the U.S.

Produced by Grey and Zaki Ali, with creative consulting by Angel Vivaldi and Jason Lekberg, Afterall lays bare Grey’s evolution as a solo artist, featuring original compositions revolving around themes of love, heartbreak, and introspection.

Encompassing six tracks, Afterall opens with the title track, a jazz-infused tune with crisp, potent percussion revealing a breezy, swirling pattern. Grey’s vocals ache with poignancy, creating a dreamy, elusively melancholic milieu.

Entry points include “Bliss,” with its soft, gently gliding melody and evocative vocals. Light, rumbling drums give the tune echoes of the passion pulsating within. A personal favourite because of its graceful flow, “Bliss” projects a mysterious charm.

Ezra Grey, photo by Devin Barnes

Vaguely reminiscent of the Goo Goo Dolls, “Into The Sun” starts low on gleaming guitars, topped by Grey’s almost sighing vocals. A luminous guitar solo, under exquisite control, imbues the song with intense emotions. The drums on this track, played by Zaki Ali, are excellent. Ali’s snare, like Charlie Watts,’ is a touch late and his cymbal splashes are wonderfully employed.

The mood of Afterall is deliciously mellow yet affecting, disclosing wafting washes of guitars and the lingering voice of Ezra Grey.

Afterall Track Listing:

1. Afterall
2. Yael
3. Horrorshow
4. Bliss
5. Into The Sun
6. Whispers in the Dark

Run Time: 21:06
Release Date: April 26, 2024
Record Label: Independent