The expansive new EP showcases the evolution and immense scope of the band’s distinctive, multi-faceted sound
Over the last few years that they’ve spent as a band, something that has been notable about Southend-on-Sea indie rock four-piece The Trusted is their constant progression and evolution as a band, continuing to expand upon and develop an engrossing and thoughtful sound that has made for a litany of varied releases that underline their appeal. Their brand new EP Iridescence is probably the most creative and memorable release from the band to date, and showcases the range and scope of their sound in 2025.
The EP opens with ‘The Lightning’, an electronic-learning track that explores themes like self-worth and ego while having this really energetic and catchy core to it that feels uplifting and vibrant throughout. The track has a cinematic sense of scope and adventure to it that feels really rousing once it gets going, and provides a really great introduction to a collection of tracks that are packed full of character and charm.
The darker ‘Overdrive (Switch Off)’ follows, immediately shifting the tone and delving into feelings of overstimulation and the intense feelings that come with it. The vocal effects and intricate guitar riffs do a great job of creating a unique feel on the track, while the lyrical themes and committed vocal performance give it a real sense of gravity as it progresses.
The punky flair of the EP’s breakout single ‘Self Destruct’ follows, evoking the reckless spirit of the golden ages of British guitar rock and all of the swagger and attitude that comes with it. The riffy appeal of the track and its instantly catchy and memorable allure makes for an exciting and timeless release that would stand out in any era of the genre, and stands up with the very best that it has to offer.
‘Miracle Face’ showcases a completely different side to the band from anything so far once again, a falsetto-driven tale of longing that takes on an altogether more poppy exterior and the most experimental feel of anything on the EP. The contrast between ‘Miracle Face’ and Self Destruct’ truly showcases the two contrasting styles of the band in their most stark forms, completely unrecognisable from each other in style.
Finally, the EP closes out with the title track ‘Iridescence’, a climatic and euphoric final note from the band and one that feels both haunting and joyous throughout thanks to its arrangement and the loved up, soaring feeling of the vocals and narrative, ending the album in memorable fashion and on a powerful, emotional high-point.
The EP as a whole feels as varied and expansive as anything you’re likely to hear this year, varying from soft moments of indie pop electronica to energetic and unabashed alternative rock, taking on a range of styles with the confidence and bravado of a band who have mastered their sound and approach. The thing that remains a constant throughout the release is the strength of the songwriting and the heart and authenticity that is poured into it, and this makes for a really rewarding and captivating listening experience regardless of which ways that sound pushes and pulls.
