Haunt - Luminous Eyes

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HAUNT released the four song EP debut “Luminous Eyes” December 29, 2017 via Shadow Kingdom. William Trevor Church, son of MONTROSE bassist Bill Church, ventures out into solo project, HAUNT, after success as the lead vocalist/guitarist for the band BEASTMAKER. Church’s new project draws inspiration from turn of the 80’s British metal; IRON MAIDEN and JUDAS PRIEST to name a couple.

The EP kicks off with the title track. “Luminous Eyes” starts off with a catchy haunting guitar hook and then the bass brings intensity to the song. Particularly with this track, if NWOBHM was the sound Church is going for, he succeeds. The galloping bass rhythm reminded me of IRON MAIDEN right off. The vocals however, are not the typical belting, powerful, resonating quality that one might suppose when NWOBHM is thrown out there as a comparison. Overall, HAUNT yields an authentic sound and skilled musicianship. Sometimes though, the lack of powerful vocal melody leaves something to be desired.

A glimmering guitar riff  lights up track two, “As Fire Burns.”  This energetic song stands out with probably the most memorable refrain on the EP. “No Master” follows with vigor. The guitar solo in this song stuck out to me as interesting; I liked the tone that was used. The last track, “Fallen Star” builds steadily in the beginning. In this particular track, the catchy guitar hooks carried the melody. This song in particular is perhaps lacking a bit in vocal melody. “Luminous Eyes” bears some ear turning guitar hooks and memorable melody. I am interested in hearing what will come from HAUNT in the future. It would be nice to hear a full length album.

Songwriting: 8
Originality: 7
Memorability: 7
Production:8