Bedsit - Pocket Toy (EP Review).
Gushing with lo-fi punk, midwest emo, and an impassioned cathartic release of emotions
Loose and raw feels like the ethos behind this EP. Whether by design or by virtue of Tom Hockney playing the part of every member on this project, the end result is very personal and primal. It is an almost direct connection between artist and listener with little-to-no middle man, almost a peek into Tom's own diary. My respect for Pocket Toy (the EP) comes from Tom's ability to present an uncensored and uncompromising expression of art. Because of this, I'm not going to lie, it won't be for everyone. The production is fuzzy and squashed and not broadcast ready. That being said, it's not meant to be. Pocket Toy lies somewhere in between Minor Threat, Teen Suicide (wasteyrself) and Fidlar.
The weakest track on the EP, in my opinion, would have to be 'Click Track'. It doesn't quite have the same dynamics as 'Pocket Toy', the words can barely be made out and it feels all-in-all lackluster. I find 'Fido' quite a charming song which is full twists and turns. 'Pocket Toy' is the clear single material from the EP but could benefit from some thicker and slicker production. 'Brother's' droning quality really conveys Tom's feeling of solitude, his vocals prove the point he's not a singer but can deliver on the front of emotional punch. The highlight of 'Brother' being the unexpected ethereal vocals closing the track.
If you don't like your music emotional, fuzzy and lo-fi, I can tell you now, it won't be for you. It's not an EP you're likely going to hear on the radio. But, if you're in a dark place there's a good chance you'll put your headphones on, block out the world and connect one to one with someone else who has clearly felt the same.
3/5 - FFO Fidlar, Teen Suicide, and Minor Threat.
I'm interested in how things will change as Bedsit move from a solo-project to a band. I think a play around with dynamics and production would really give this project more oomph.
Check it out on Bandcamp - https://bedsit.bandcamp.com/
He's looking for a backing band for this project, so if you are based around Hull and you're interested, you can contact him here.