Drastic ParkImposter Syndrome (EP)

Not sure what number American Pie they’re up to, but we’ve found the soundtrack for it. Drastic Park’s brand-new EP Imposter Syndrome is a literal time machine back to the early-mid 2000s when pop punk was at its peak and we were all fantasising about what it’d be like to go to Warped Tour.

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Imposter Syndrome was originally intended to only be songs about the COVID-19 situation, but the time spent in lockdown gave Drastic Park a chance for some internal exploration. The themes of the EP changed slightly, and the final product is more of a glimpse into the personal journeys of some of the members.

They also recorded and produced the entire record from their own homes and isolated from one another, so the communication between members must’ve been impeccable.

Immediately capturing the attention of listeners, the EP starts off with the 43-second Patience Wearing Thin, which is quite an ironic name for the track since you need zero patience to listen to this quickfire blast to the eardrums. This track was initially formed as a chance for Drastic Park’s new drummer Joe to show off his drumming skills, but luckily the band ended up including it as a kick to the guts to begin the epic EP (and a direct contrast to the closing song).

Drastic Park’s Imposter Syndrome is so uplifting that you’ll be going back for more, not only for that sentimental crumb of serotonin but for some damn good music.

One of the singles that’s already been released is Work Of Art which features Cassie Sutton of Terra, who absolutely nailed her part and brings a whole new surprise element to the EP. Her high but soft vocals contrast perfectly with Drastic Park’s John Stokes’ rugged melodies, and if you’re a fan of Simple Plan’s Jet Lag then this’ll knock your socks off.

Drastic Park keeps the nostalgia and energy high throughout the entire experience and wrapping up the EP on a slower note is B+. Although this song sounds heartwarmingly wholesome, it’s actually just a joke song about the COVID 19 pandemic, with the verses emulating the person who’s kept cool and not given into the fear mongering of the media, while the choruses represent the chaotic, panic buying conspiracist. Stokes shows off more of a natural and raw side to what his vocal cords are capable of and it’s a really nice way to end the EP, plus it’ll be a go-to for when the pandemic dread sets in.

Drastic Park’s Imposter Syndrome is so uplifting that you’ll be going back for more, not only for that sentimental crumb of serotonin but for some damn good music. Pop punk and pub rock are obviously two genres that are meant to be together.

STANDOUT TRACKS: Work Of Art, Feels Like Forever, 10 Years
STICK THIS NEXT TO: Blink 182, Simple Plan, All Time Low