Review by Tony Gaskin

I love it when a band throw something unexpected at you, and this is the case with a five track EP I had sent to me by Yorkshire based Lockin.

Opening with the title track “These Three Skulls” you get an immediate impression that these guys are heavily influenced by the likes of Pantera and Down. Crushing guitar riffs and a chanting chorus reinforce that initial prognosis.

Then we get the first curve ball, second track “Never Give Away” kicks off with a more Nu-metal sound to it. Dave Battle on vocals shows off his great range and skill on this track, sounding a bit like Davey Draven, but staying on key!! The song finishes off with a great drum/guitar combo that builds to an ear splitting climax.

“Black Horizon” and “Own Worst Enemy” continue with the more formulaic metal riffs and hooks that are the signature style of this band. Crunching guitars, some great drum pieces and excellent vocals. The use of repetition is well done, catchy and an obvious trademark.

By this time you’ve got this band pegged has a good, solid metal outfit who combine a variety of styles from classic heavy metal through old school thrash to Nu-metal. The end result is a very listenable CD that won’t become too tiresome after countless listenings.

But it’s not over! They give you a sucker punch with the incredibly atmospheric and moving “Nightworker” A six minute opus that shows another side to this band. A well written and emotive song, Battle’s vocals gave me goose pimples when I first listened to it. Starting off slow and quiet, it builds to a soaring climax that leaves you exhilarated and thoughtful, one of the best songs I’ve heard all year.

All in all a wonderfully varied and well produced release, I look forward to much more from Lockin and hopefully get to see them live.

9/10

http://www.lockinofficial.com