by aura
Formed in the spring of 2022, The Maddocks are what I like to call a baby band. Throughout an eventful 2023, the four-piece from Stockport, UK released four singles, garnered attention with their first-ever radio play on Radio X, enjoyed a successful Manchester headline show, and embarked on their first ever tour. Now the band have reached a milestone they’ve been working toward “pretty much since the formation of the band”, with the debut of their first EP, What’s On the Menu.
Running on a theme of late-night comraderie, the EP’s four tracks were all written, recorded, and mastered via the band’s own DIY magic in their Fallowfield rehearsal room. “In true Maddocks fashion, the names have almost nothing to do with the lyrics,” the band shared, adding that track titles instead come from phrases they’ve said or overheard while out and about.
“We’re all best friends and spend an awful lot of time together chatting absolute rubbish, so we hope people pick up on that slightly chaotic and fun energy in the songs.” I think that’s a fair hope, as the EP’s tracks develop over the span of about half an hour, bringing an interesting take on what’s generally been referred to as post-punk.
Kicking off on an energetic note, the EP opens with ‘Cabaret’, a tune with a compelling drum beat, 80s-reminiscent background, and interest-peaking vocals. Sonically, it works well as a statement of intent if this is the first you’re hearing from them. It makes you want to stay.
Things move along with previously released track ‘How’s Albert? (No Idea)’, one of the first tunes the band ever wrote. The not-so-subtle dig at the monarchy is a yes for me, TBH and as a whole, the song shows a grungier side to the young band, in a very fun way that will likely have you singing along whether you agree or not. Banger!
Funnily enough, the next track is called ‘Does He Know?’, which is a question repeatedly asked in the previous song. This one is a change of pace, infused with fuzzier guitar sounds and darker ones, far more reflective and angsty in nature, without breaking the stride of the sonic context the EP has. It’s a melodic track, with great musical moments that travels a bit further into experimental rock sounds, something that suits the band really well.
Last but not least, we’ve got the closing track, ‘Ronnie O’Sullivan’. Also the longest tune, being an extended version of the original single, ending with a full instrumental arrangement that displays some great guitar solos and an addictive bassline. Altogether, the song has such an infectious, contemporary, and compelling sound to it, and showcases the band’s eclectic influences and musical talents. Plus, it’s got one hell of an ending. Scrumptious.
The Maddocks will celebrate the EP’s release with a headline show at Manchester’s Deaf Institute on February 24, with support coming from Stan Buckroyd and Tay Temple.
Indie Dependent 
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