Earthshield is Evan Gillespie (guitars, vocals) Ritchie Simpson (drums) and Nigel Millington on bass, three Timaru-based mates who have been playing together, on and off, for the last decade. If you’re into complex time signatures with hard-hitting riff-driven wall-of-sound rock and metal, then this is definitely your cup of Earl Grey.

There is no gentle introduction as the EP launches into Break In The Clouds. It’s filled with all the usual suspects, Mr Massive Riff, Mr Big Bass, Mr Epic Drums. Invitation comes with ominous guitar riff-age accompanying an invite to the end of the world delivered by the Fatso-Jetsonesque Evan Gillespie. If you enjoy hearing a drummer owning a double kick, the last track Razorblades will blow your hair back. Produced by Kevin Allison at Angels Gate Studio in Christchurch, the problem with this EP is that it races to the end far too quickly. A few more songs bundled onto the CD would have been awesome. Earthshield seem proud of the fact that they have supported many touring NZ bands. Perhaps it’s time for them to consider that other bands may be as happy supporting them.