Music from the Heart

Since Emperor of Ice Cream announced their return from a twenty-five-year hiatus in May 2020 and with the release of their long-awaited debut album 'No Sound Ever Dies' last August, they have embarked on a chapter that very few, if any, expected would be written. The acclaimed debut long player entered the official Irish album charts upon release while also taking the No.1 spot in the indie album charts. Due to the wide acclaim for the album and the associated singles the band have not only appeased their long-established cult following but have garnered a new legion of supporters around the globe, which in turn has created a renewed demand for the band's back catalogue.

April 16^th saw Emperor of Ice Cream release ‘The EP Collection 93-94’ a compilation of their three extremely well-received EPs (Overflow, William and Know Me) which unless you were lucky enough to pick up a physical copy back in the pre digital 90’s, were no longer available. The band have released two singles 'Overflow' and most recently 'Puerile' leading up to the release of compilation album, both to wide acclaim.  The EP collection 93-94 can be pre-ordered now via Bandcamp and is available as a digital download and a limited-edition cd. Emperor of Ice Cream are currently working on their follow up to 'No Sound Ever Dies' which is due out later this year.

Opening in full force with Overflow, this highly energetic number sets the tone for the collection. One of those songs impossible to stand still when you hear it. There are some memorable guitar riffs in what is a drum-based track. You will hear some interesting sounds in the song as well which would make you question the sense of it yet it seems to fit in the overall vibe and not stand out.

The lead singer has an easily recognizable vocal with a distinctive accent and style. Unforunately, in some cases the heavy guitar riffs are overshadowing him so it makes hard to understand what he's singing about. Less would be more.

When you hear  Soft to Touch you are wondering whether the band is capable of playing any faster than they do here.  Everything seems to be working with swiss precision, making the track a highlight on the album.

Zack Barnes take us on a trip back in time, to the golden era of rock'n'roll. Even some of the biggest stars wouldn't be ashamed to put out a catchy number like this. And we all know there have been quite a few memorable that are being sung over the decades.

William is a more gentle, guitar-based ballad at the start before the drums kick in and transform the whole piece into something fitting for a packed club. Some inventional riffs are present again.

 Again and Again carry certain distant resemblance to Nirvana. Heavy track with long lasting impact. Another considerable highlight of the collection.

Given the musical consistence of these songs, no wonder the EPs that form the album have received such a rave reviews. If you are into heavier music, this is something for you.