8/10
Since releasing their brilliant debut album 'In Light' back in 2011, Louisiana-based pop-rock outfit Givers have had a sporadic time ever since. Releasing just one follow-up record in 2015, the group has been plagued with long, dry spells of musical inspiration. But after returning with a number of new singles earlier in the year, the band certainly look to be heading back to their best with a new four-track release 'Movin On'.
Much like its title would suggest, the band are looking for a new direction that manages to appeal to their original focus but remain fresh and exciting throughout, and this is exactly the feeling we get from this new release. Straight out of the gates with its opener 'Collide', the new EP is a heady mix of uplifting and enjoyable pop-rock, with the occasional dabble in electronics, that manages to create a joyful and fulfilling collection that never overexerts itself and shows great promise to the group's overall ambitions.
They have certainly been missed these last few years but this return is exactly what we would have wanted to hear from them at this stage. Exciting and full of life, Givers are back on form and hopefully more inspired as they continue on.