At first, Inward Eye's music sounds vulnerable and somewhat embarrassing because of the unapologetic emotions which these three Winnipeg Brothers, Anders, Dave, and Kyle, display on their EP.

From the opening riffs of "Shame," the first comparison which comes to mind is The Clash and their album opener "London Calling." (Unfair? Hardly, it's an apt comparison which the band itself proclaims.) The Clash's fiery rhythm guitar burns at a distance like flames which are then cooled by the deep bass notes sounding like an unearthly Pink Floyd lick.

"Shame" begins with the now conventional amp distortion, some steady bass notes, some splashes and a hi-hat from the drums, then pounds into a screeching vocal performance and a mess of guitar distortions. It’s vulnerable and embarrassing because Inward Eye is expending such intensity to sound quite unoriginal.

The lyrics are unmemorable and touch on subjects as timely as youth, angst, retribution, and dreams of a lost revolution. Sounds familiar? The only thing these boys have noticeably avoided is romantic betrayal.

Upon second review the similarities between Canadian groups Sum 41, Our Lady Peace, and Gob shine through and make Inward Eye pleasant and commendable. Halfway through "You Know I Know" the guitar riff transforms into a Zeppelin-esque monolithic melody. If the group can maintain the stature of that lick, and keep channelling Raine Maida, as evidenced on "The Times They Aren't A Changing" - cringe-worthy title, I know - they may have something.

Upon third listening the group's faults outweigh their triumphs and the four-song effort fails to command. Youthful energy and aggression can only maintain interest for so long. Substance that resonates simply does not prevail on this preview, but an album or two from now the group may carve a unique, original sound worthy of considerable merit. We'll see.

Track Listing:
1. Shame
2. Blind Paranoia
3. You Know I Know
4. The Times They Aren't A Changin