Disc A (Suffering and the Hideous Thieves)
Nearly everyone who had the privilege of hearing Suffering and the Hideous Thieves debut album, Real Panic Formed, was amazed by it. Aside from minor critiques about Jeff Suffering's vocal range (as valid as they were), there was nearly unanimous agreement that this CD was phenomenal. The only question that remained was could Jeff Suffering and crew pull together an equally remarkable follow up.

Releasing the Double EP with The Hush Hush silenced all questions about maintaining their intensity and drive. Jeff Suffering has greatly improved his range, and the songs are even better. The disc starts by offering a gorgeous reworked version of Disappear from Real Panic Formed. This time the entire group contributes and takes the song to an even more passionate and haunting level. Next up, Apologies presents a tender and heartfelt confession of love with pop influence. Creation is a frenzied drive through the creation of man outlined in Genesis (complete with screams and chants in primitive fashion). The real jewel of the CD is the song St. Elizabeth, which encompasses the entire range that the group covers. It flows from simple and sweet, over to an outpouring of raw emotion, then rushes to depleted state of anger, frustration and zeal. It's simply magnificent. The final song is Woman. Developed by thick, dirty bass lines it draws the listener in, and develops the idea that women should be held in high honor; not because of men, but rather their innate nature

Disc B (The Hush Hush)

Elegant vocals, smooth guitar and soothing viola is what comprises songs by The Hush Hush. The most notable track (thanks to the intro of Twice in Water Color) seems to be Fading Fast. The vocals seem somewhere between fragile and threatening as they are held up by the smooth melody.

Although sometimes simplicity is beneficial, If I'm an Angel, You Are My Wings isn't assisted by the style. No matter how many times I listen to this song I can't remember one single line. It's only when distinct guitar and defined viola are mixed that the songs really stand out. Songs like Perfect to Imperfect and Chapel in Lantern Yard are excellent songs that make you sit up and take notice

Overall this is the best Split/Double EP that I have ever heard. The contagious mix of Suffering and the Hideous Thieves and the elegant moods of The Hush Hush makes this CD one that is a MUST for any collection.

You can buy this album from Lujo Records

-Mike Frost
www.buzzgrinder.com