Investigator – Investigator

Investigator
August 20,2020
22:42

When you think of New Zealand, you immediately think of the unique flora and fauna. Or the film trilogies “Lord of the Rings” or “The Little Hobbit”. Musically, the island nation in the South Pacific was largely a blank spot for me. Until recently. Investigator come from Auckland, the largest city in the country, and, according to the press text, play melodic, classic hard rock. The band is the brainchild of singer, songwriter and producer Adrian Drew. He soon found comrades-in-arms. The band was apparently founded in 2017. The self-titled debut EP is available now.

And where it says melodic hard rock is melodic rock inside. Even if it was a bit softened thanks to the pop attitude, as can be heard in the opener “Livin’ In A Magazine”. Sounds like early Bon Jovi. “Goodbye Car” starts with engine noises and sounds bluesy afterwards. In doing so, they move away musically from the US boys from New Jersey. A pleasant splash of color. Loose flaky sounds then “7 Ways”. In the video you can see a skateboard ride and admire various tricks on these sports’ equipment. “The Golden Rule” moves back into pop-rock realms before the EP ends with the ballad “Candlelight”.

With the self-titled debut EP Investigator don’t tear up trees. It’s melodic hard rock with a lot of pop. As you have heard it many times before. When listening you have to reduce your expectations. There are no new impulses to be discovered for this genre. But that’s probably not the intention of the New Zealand band either. What makes these songs worth listening to is the spread of good mood. For the future, a little more toughness and a little less pop uniformity would be desirable. And possibly a more original cover artwork.

Investigator – 7 Ways: https://youtu.be/37RgTVpf3G8

Lineup:

Adrian Drew – Guitars, Vocals
David Crowhen – Bass
Craig van Kan – Drums
Adam Morton-Mason – Lead Guitar

Label: Self release

Out: August 20^th, 2020

Playing time: 22:42

Track list:

• Livin’ In A Magazine
• Goodbye Car
• 7 Ways
• The Golden Rule
• Candlelight