On My Honor isn't your typical Pop Punk band, drawing predominant influences from bands to the tune of The Starting Line, Relient K, and Jimmy Eat World. I've said in the past that Pop Punk can be somewhat of a rigid genre, though I do believe there are always exceptions, and On My Honor is one of them.
Fuelled by catchy hooks and the occasional gang vocal, On My Honor still manage to step out of line while making use of all of the styles we know and long for. Even as I first read the EP title and saw the artwork, before listening to any of the songs, I felt that it emitted a very positive, sincere, and natural vibe. Thoughts also steered towards the psychological concept of nature versus nurture. At this point I already had a lot of stock in what to expect from the music itself, and it didn't disappoint.
The EP kicks into action with Definition and the line what if these words are the last I ever get to say. I believe life should be lived as though everyday is your last, not taking a single moment for granted, and I feel that parts of this song, and EP, really personify this idea. For me, the opening riff really sets the mood, just before the drums come in and pick up the pace. Definition is one of the songs on the EP with a very mellow undertone; deeming it organic and therapeutic, if you will. You Always Wreck Closest To Home keeps afloat on a somewhat more upbeat tempo. The EP explores various lyrical themes, and the idea of home is one of them, made apparent in this track. The Footholds further builds on to the EP's unique ambiance, with a particularly cathartic riff, bridging the chorus into the next verse. If I was forced to choose, I would dub Seeds as the weakest link, but only by comparison, as I found the choruses came off as somewhat diluted. The song Pencil Lines & Door Frames is a culmination of everything the EP has presented to this point; backed by the band's signature guitars and unforgettable melodies. Next is Under Yellow Lights. This song's intro feels like if I close my eyes and wish hard enough, it'll pick me up and take me away, honestly. Driven by a heavy dose of the melancholic melodies often used, it seems like no breakdown or gang vocal could compare. The last minute or so in the song neatly ties the knot, ready to start over. Now, if you picked up the pre-order of the EP, or have listened to our stream, you'd be familiar with Pillowfights. Worthy of having been included as a full release track, Pillowfights is the fastest paced song of the seven, and therefore making the record all the more complete.
Nature & Nurture is undoubtedly a record where too often words fall short. I can only hope that more artists, and listeners, see this as an exemplary display of musicianship, where the real justice is done when listened to first-hand.
You can also catch our exclusive stream of the EP, including the pre-order bonus track, right here!
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