Eyes On Damascus – Melodic and crisply polished, but without excess, leaving their impact and rock edge intact.

Eyes On Damascus is a 4 piece melodic rock band from Sterling Heights, MI. Formed in 2012; EOD was able to record their debut with producer Tim West (Exit the Ordinary). And their self-titled debut is a melodic rock masterpiece. The songs are incredibly melodic and addictive. The rhythm, guitar work and vocals on each song is mind-blowing. The production quality is downright top class. The time spent into making the 8-track “Eyes On Damascus” is obvious, as the production, quality and overall feel of the recording is very near perfection.

The first song, “A Lion’s Bride” is a great way to start off the EP. Pounding, raw, unrelenting and pretty much everything a great rock song should be. Good lyrics, catchy riffs, and a blazing guitar bridge supported by outstanding drumming, give this song a definite identity. “Fervent” is lighter and marks a change of pace, forging a wall of jangling guitar rhythms.

“Demons” starts of slow but then settles into a groove that kicks hard. This third track confirms that above the solid bass and drum rhythm section, the band have their signature sound within the brilliant tones of the guitars –whether rhythm or lead- which push, pull and squeeze your adrenalin all over the aural spectrum.

“Undeserved by Eyes” is fast and furious, again presenting a perfect platform to showcase the rock solid drumming in support of the melodic and soaring vocals, which is another highlight of this EP. The instrumental “Interlude” serves to certify the musical and instrumental prowess of Eyes On Damascus, and does so with a 3 minute display of creativity and power.

“The Search” is my favorite song on the EP. Dark and brooding with changing tempos, churning guitars, an uplifting instrumental bridge and emotional vocals, this track is deep and moving. “Trembling” runs a close second on my favorites list. It catches you right away and you will find your foot tapping along to its beat almost instantly.

“Within These Walls” closes the EP in the best possible way, leaving you with all the band’s best qualities; a great rhythm section capable of playing the most complex pieces, nothing short of spectacular guitar work all the way around, and finally, vocals that are able to carry a rock song with thunderous ability and passion.

Eyes On Damascus are melodic and crisply polished, but without excess, leaving their impact and rock edge intact. They stick to what they know best, crafting a pretty impressive batch of songs that forges intelligent lyrics with a dense, driving sound. They really strike strong notes, while at the same time keeping their style catchy, radio-ready and accessible to a wide audience of rock music lovers.