As part of Antiquated Future Records’ new reissue series, June 13th saw the rerelease of Oh, Rose’s EP, That Do Now See. Since it’s original release, the band has amassed a steady fanbase, bolstered by a number of singles and two excellent full length records. It is apt however, that Oh, Rose’s first release should be reintroduced to the world, as it is the band at by far their most raw and stripped back.
The first track on the EP, ‘Prom’ is a fuzzy, slacker rock moment. It calls to mind the early work of Julia Jacklin, with singer Olivia Rose unabashedly screaming with a painful yearn. Above everything, it is passion that makes the band’s work so addictive. Title-track, ‘That Do Now See’ is alarmingly brooding, with blues tinged verses that strike a resemblance to the darker moments of British singer, Anna Calvi. It is wonderfully moody, with Rose’s voice tilting on the edge of full blown cacophony.
It is of utmost importance that works like this see the light of day again, reinvigorating current fan’s love for the project, and allowing new listeners to discover the work of Oh, Rose. It is so rare that a band should emerge fully formed, not only that they release a work that is so poignant and relevant to it’s time. This is best displayed on closing track, ‘Into the Chorus’; a confidently quiet moment, with Olivia Rose’s voice soaring high above the ambient instrumentation. There is nothing more captivating than a strong sense of spirit, and Oh, Rose have heaps of it.
This is my first time hearing this project, and although I regret not coming across it ten years prior, I couldn’t be happier that it has found it’s way to me. Not only do I get to write about such an accomplished project from at the time such a young band, but I get to witness a hopeful continued ascendance of a much deserving band. I couldn’t be more thrilled to have had the opportunity to discover this project, and I look forward to seeing how Oh, Rose, continues to grow and grow.
Written by Callum Foulds