'A Tag / A Brand / A Label' is the third EP I've received from Norwich 5 piece Ostracoda, and I've started to expect great things with every CD they send me. According to their press release, the band "exploded into the music world with a hell-bent intention to give the local Norwich music scene - and indeed the country - a much required re-education in hard rock". This 're-education' process started in 2003 with their very impressive EP 'Routine of the In-between' and is still going strong with their third recording.

The EP starts with 'Flood', an energetic blast of hard rock with dynamic guitar riffs and an infectious beat. The second track, 'Square One' has a similar feel to 'Flood' in that it also showcases Ostracoda's ability to produce lively, powerful rock music that forces you to sit up and take notice. Third track, 'Flint & Fuel' is a much slower, more laid-back song, and takes the EP to a new level. Frontman Dan Kelby's lingering vocals fit the music perfectly, helping to create a slightly edgy atmosphere to the music. The final track on the EP is 'Sweet Tedium', and it rounds off the CD nicely; the song mixes haunting vocals (I've said it before and I'll say it again!) and brilliant guitar solos to create a slightly mismatched but effective sound that will stay with you long after the CD's stopped playing.

Another impressive and professional sounding EP from Ostracoda; I'd recommend them to any rock fan, so go and check out www.ostracoda.com now!

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