The last we heard from him, and I mean properly, was back in 2022, following a string of single releases and the popularly acclaimed album “Never Let It Show” that has gone on to significantly raise his stock value. Singer-songwriter, recording artist, and producer LABRAN’s journey from Birmingham, England, has been marked by exploration and evolution, constant growth, and discovery. This odyssey into the realm of music began with an insatiable curiosity and a desire to express raw emotions through sonic experimentation. The journey has been far from smooth, but the fact that he is still here counts for something huge!
LABRAN is a testament to the power of resilience and artistic expression, having weathered the storms of life. With his own unwavering passion for music and a drive to succeed, he is destined to make a significant impact in the industry and surely leave a lasting legacy—at least that’s my opinion.
And he is now back with a 5-track collection dubbed “Tried So Hard” that was inspired by his own boredom and insatiable need to write new music. This EP reflects what really sets LABRAN apart from his peers his commitment to keeping it real. The lyrics here are a reflection of his truth, unapologetically addressing the harsh realities of the creeping, unwarranted desire for war and its inevitably negative outcomes, the destruction of the west and how crony capitalism has corrupted the political system, the overstated self-importance of some people, as well as the vulnerabilities of a heart that wants someone so badly but they are afraid if they make their intentions clearer, then they may end up losing that person forever.
For a fact, the track “Reptilians” does not tip-toe around its strong political opinions, as LABRAN vividly expresses what is ailing us as a world, especially this unjustifiable desire for war and control. The driving riffs and the punchy drums set the tone as LABRAN’s immensely expressive vocals keep up with this pacy, rhythm-soaked instrumentation, vividly capturing what the track is all about with deeply honest and thought-provoking lyrics. His occasional low-end death grunts add an otherworldly layer to the track, blending seamlessly with the inflammatory instrumentation to create an atmosphere thick with emotion and darkness.
The title track “Tried So Hard” features a mellow intro with an invitingly poignant touch in both melodies and lyrics. The striking guitar sets the tone as the drums are eased in, setting a beautiful scene for LABRAN’s emotion-drenched performance that seems to have been inspired by his own tumultuous upbringing. The gentle yet powerful production underscores the track’s emotional depth, leaving a lasting imprint on the heart and soul of its listener.
“Fireworks” is where LABRAN surrenders his vulnerability for all to experience, whether this was done on purpose or is just a coincidence remains a mystery. The structure of this masterpiece has an identifiable blues rock feel around it with graphic lyrics that allude to the fear of confessing your feelings to someone, only to lose them forever.
“Oohwoo’s” untamed lyrics explore the conceited people who are always lost in their overstated sense of self-importance, backed by that ear-gracing instrumentation as the shimmering guitar tones blend intriguingly with the fearsome drums, keys, and bass to captivate the senses. Labrans emotive vocals elevate the track’s sonic theme to new heights.
For all I know, the last track, “I Got You” could well capture that political cynicism or could well fit in any kind of relationship marked by constant lies and manipulation. All I know is that it is an irresistible, referenceable, and addictive work of art that not only captures the brilliant penmanship of LABRAN but also his excellent recording and production prowess.
Special mention goes to his collaborator, Andrew Langford, a former IONS bandmate, who is
now his drummer. His precise musicianship surely infused these songs with that magic and
made them come out significantly better. If you love punk, metal, and rock music that easily defies the easiest of conventions, you will be right at home with “Tried So Hard,” which sees LABRAN fire almost on all fronts. Enjoy this epic collection, and follow him everywhere for real-time updates.
See the music video for “Reptilans”
Stream the Tried So Hard EP here
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