I have nothing but praise for the beautiful poetry of Us & Others in their soft-rock debut album Patchwork. Band members Graeme Cornies, Ferg Hyde, Martyn Skrzypczyk, James Taylor and Joel Stouffer really hit the nail on the head with their first album. The 13-track album is a fervent mix of loud and soft anger, torment and happiness. Burning Up throws fireballs of emotion with heavy drums and ardent lyrics. Gone For Good boasts a smooth beginning with an interesting blend of building up and slowing down throughout the track. Lost At Sea is nothing but soft, sweet verses with intense musical accompaniment. Keys, guitar, drums and vocals intertwine with skill and sensation in Patchwork. The lyrics showcase true artists while the instrumentals are ideal. Us & Others rock with brilliance.

Published in Volume 65, Number 24 of The Uniter (March 24, 2011)