Reviewing (debut) EPs is sometimes difficult, ‘cause mostly there’s not much known about the band in question. But these reviews are far more challenging to write than to write a review about records of long-running and established bands. When receiving a package from such a new, unknown band, it’s always a surprise how shitty or good it will be, while with established acts you’ve mostly got some prejudices.

Reviewing NYA’s self-titled four track demo/EP was a very pleasant surprise. This young band from Southern England was formed in 2007 by five experienced touring musicians and after months of working on their own songs they now present us the results.

In fact I could just easily copy their biography to convince you about the quality of these four songs, ‘cause the songs are indeed nicely balanced mixes of catchy choruses, heavy riffing and melodic, harmonious vocals. If you like modern metal bands like Killswitch Engage and Disturbed you’ll probably digg NYA’s music too.

Their groovy mix of modern (melodic) metal and rock definitely does the job for me and I sincerely hope they keep up their promise to extensively tour Europe in 2009. For now, go to their MySpace and check out their music.