Music Reviews: Seized Up - "Seized Up" EP

From the "I Should Have Heard This Before" files comes the self titled debut EP from Seized Up. I recently discovered this amazing Detroit band when they did a split with Chicago's own About The Mess. I was blown away at how great this band was, and they were kind enough to send me their debut that came out in 2011. Now, I wouldn't normally review an album over 6 months old. But THIS is an exception to the rules.

"It's Not Alright" kicks things off with lots of harmonies and a sing along chorus. It's a great way to start of this release. "Saturday Night" is an ode to insomnia and drinking. What a great combination to write about. When singer/guitarist Kyle Green sings "lost in the bottle again" you truly believe him. Vee's way of singing the lyrics bring the listener INTO the song. He's not just singing words...he's sitting you down and telling you his story. Pulling you in and making you feel what he's saying. Great tune!

The band, Green, singer/guitarist Jimmy Vee, singer/bassist PunchKnife Fruin and drummer Dan Stover are really tight and each member brings something special to the fold, never overshadowing the other members. It's just such  a win win. Between the major riffage, harmonies and lyrics I can't say enough good about this band. They have it all. I love Vee's voice and the bands playing is top notch. It's hard to believe this band is only 2 years old. But that's the mark of great competent players. They can come together and in a short time sound like they've been playing together for years. 

The EP closes with "Exactly What It Was" another slice of pop punk greatness and leaves this listener wanting more...MUCH more. But between this and the ATM split, I think that Seized Up have a bright future ahead of them. And I'll be waiting for the next release, and hope that it's a full length. But in the meantime I'll have this to hold me over. And if you're in the Chicagoland area I highly suggest you check out the band live when they play the Cobra Lounge tomorrow night (June 9) with About the Mess, The Wanton Looks and Bottle Kids as part of the Whoa! Records Summer Release Party. It's sure to be a great show!

4 ½ / 5 stars