From the propulsive opening bars, Wellington’s Nation sets the groove with intent. The four-piece soul/pop unit have as much funk as they do feel.

With obvious influence from Jamiroquai and Dirty Loops, ‘Nation’ navigates its way through the complex opening track Fumes with pinpoint accuracy. Any stereotyping of complexity over finesse can quickly be dispelled with the melodic and expressive delivery of Trouble.

Composer/guitarist/singer Miharo Gregory maintains the band’s identity with a distinctive air of kiwiana throughout. The Root Of All Evil digs deep, exploring a more progressive structure, all the while supported by tasteful fills and counter melodies band-wide.

Co-writer Hertzog Burger’s syncopated synth lines lead the band through a range of moods, always managing to reach the destination the songs require. Nation offer a fresh sound and unique approach to the soul genre, infusing prog with pop convincingly on this debut EP.

Recorded at Organik Music Workz the production of these four songs is crisp and classy. With two prior tracks available on Bandcamp there is enough here for a taster while we look forward to the band’s first long player.

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