CD Review: The Romans – Tomorrow Coming Soon EP

The Romans
Tomorrow Coming Soon EP

By Stephanie Roman

I discovered The Romans (no relation) while they were playing live in Castleberry Hill for a friend’s art fundraiser. While I enjoyed viewing the art inside the gallery, the music outside was even more compelling. The moody vocals and warm melodies mixed perfectly with the setting sun and casual stroll of passing art enthusiasts.

The Romans’ latest EP — Tomorrow Coming Soon — begins in a similar way with the first track, “I Was Born.” A lovely light touch on percussion and an uplifting guitar melody envelops the vocals. “Tomorrow Coming Soon” is a slower ballad, serene and delicate with lyrics that reveal melancholy and release: “Can’t breathe now, slowly drown. Capsize my thoughts screaming loud, wring me out.”

The final track, “Better Off Dead,” bursts forth with a catchy, post-punk vibe. Some unique composition is found when the music drops out at the end of the chorus, providing punctuation. The Romans showcase their range in both tempo and emotion with these three songs, and should have much more to offer for a full-length album. The EP will be officially released on February 1, 2012, but tracks may be previewed on the band’s Facebook page.

Friends, hipsters, lend The Romans your ear.