REVENANT - BEST MEDICINE EP
Reviewed by Laura DQ • 11 April 2025
When I asked Revenant how they’d describe their music to a newcomer, they concluded that they’re a ‘guitar band’, naming various influences but struggling to pinpoint exactly who they might sound similar to. Listening to new EP ‘Best Medicine’, I understand the struggle, as the Revenant sound is a wonderful mix of hard rocking riffs and quieter introspection, good old classic rock and occasional Southern flavour.
Formed in 2023, ‘Best Medicine’ is the band’s second EP, and feels like a work of two halves. Front loaded with the noisier tracks, ‘Public Service Announcement’ is a suitably raucous introduction, getting things underway with a riff that 70s Aerosmith would have been proud of. It’s no nonsense at less than three minutes long and kicks with real attitude, the result of a rhythm section with proper wallop and two commanding guitarists giving it what for.
The title track that follows has all the makings of a hit, going straight for a chorus that’s guaranteed to get lodged in your brain. It feels as uplifting as the subject matter, vocalist Sam Lay singing joyfully about his partner being the ‘Best Medicine for [his] mind’. There’s something warm and familiar about the sound; perhaps it’s the lovely harmonies or the pleasing twin guitars that reveal a Thin Lizzy influence, but Classic Rock readers had it right when they voted this one a track of the week.
An appropriate centrepiece, ‘Runaway Rage’ marks something of a high point, with swampy, slide guitar giving way to a punchy chorus that makes clever use of dynamics for maximum impact. It’s an opportunity for the band to stretch out, a particularly magnificent guitar solo lighting up the second half.
From here, we move into more restrained territory, but don’t let that put you off. ‘Least I Can Do’ is a truly lovely ballad, written from the perspective of a father, assuring his children that he’ll be there for them whatever life may throw. ‘Miss You’ is quieter still, Sam Lay’s vocal accompanied only by acoustic guitar, highlighting the emotion present in his performance.
Where some bands seem hung up on being flashy, Revenant recognise the importance of great songs and quality songwriting. ‘Best Medicine’ is out on Friday and available to order here www.revenantsongs.co.uk
Revenant play Maid of Stone Festival on Saturday 19th July - don’t miss them.
Revenant is:
Sam Lay - vocals/guitar
Matthew Hudson - guitar
Robin Nutley - bass
Carl Donoghue - drums