UK band THE THINKING MEN have operated out from their base in Norwich since 2010, with one CD and two EPs to their name so far. “Queen of the Ravens” is the most recent of the latter, and is scheduled to be officially released at the end of July 2016 according to the press information sent to me.

The band is self-described as alternative rock, while their PR agent have sued the term blues rock about them. Neither of which is quite correct, but not all together wrong either. I do get the impression that this is a band more about approach and execution than a band attempting to pigeonhole themselves into any given stylistic context though, although I do get the impression that all members are rather fond of vintage music in general, with a focus on the type of music released in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s.

Blues based, psychedelic hard rock is a common denominator on this production, but explored in a manner not too many other artists I’m aware of have done. The songs are dark, pulsating affairs, mainly revolving around vintage guitars and vintage organs, in a manner that gives associations to The Doors paired of with an early 70’s power trio in terms of general style, with dark theatrical details of the mind that makes me suspect that the band members may have listened to an album or three by The Cramps as well, flavored with some dark humor that gives me associations to a demented version of The Madness to boot. The theatrical, expressive lead vocals emphasize the dark, demented and theatrical nature of this band and their music in a splendid manner.

If vintage late 60’s and 70’s blues based hard rock is something you have a general taste for, and you are able to appreciate bleak, dark humor and demented but sophisticated details thrown in to that mix, this is an EP that you just might want to investigate. Especially if you also find a band like The Doors to be noteworthy and generally appealing.

My rating: 85/100

Links:
https://www.facebook.com/thethinkingmen/
https://thethinkingmen.com/