North Carolina natives THE FIFTH have been around for the better part of the 2000’s but 2021 brings a re-birth for sorts for these rockers as a new lineup, assembled in 2018, releases their first EP with some “fresh blood” and it’s intriguing to see what they have to offer amongst the five tracks featured. The band has seemingly changed their approach from more modern sounding hard rock to something that will delight both older and newer rockers as their sound gets a bit more melodic in approach with some late ‘80s/early ‘90s elements being introduced.
“Shake Little Sister” opens the EP with a razor-sharp guitar riff and Roy Cathey’s seasoned vocals are noticed right away. The track harkens back to the days of the early ‘90s as some of the ‘80s bands started to toughen their sound a bit. It’s not far in sound from a slightly rawer BADLANDS mixed with some TESLA for good measure. The track isn’t totally retro sounding by those comparisons though as it maintains a modern flair too and Cathey can still sing like the pro that he is!
“Calm Before The Storm” is a mid-paced and moody track with soaring vocals from Cathey while “Home” is possibly my favorite track from the EP. The song is mellow but has a great vibe and I can’t say enough how great Cathey’s vocals are here. This guy started in Gibraltar in 1986 and later in the much higher profile major label band, Cold Sweat in 1990 and he sounds as good as ever, in fact maybe better, as his voice has matured just like a fine wine.
“Coming To Get You” cranks things back up with a heavy riff leaning more in the modern rock direction and the song is another good one. Ending the EP is “Roll The Bones” and it’s a balls-out rocker much like the opening track.
THE FIFTH’s self-titled new 5-song EP is a change in direction from the bands earlier sound, but it sounds like they are onto something for sure. It features quality songwriting, outstanding vocals from Roy Cathey and great playing all-around from the new band. The only problem is it is only five songs because I’d certainly like to hear more from this new lineup.
