EP Review: Davy Williamson Kickstarts Solo Career with Debut EP

Davy Williamson is no stranger to the music scene. His 25-year long career is peppered with numerous achievements running as far back as his time in the Third Class Passenger and Ma-Shot-Pa bands. While his band times may have ended, his singing career I far from over. On the contrary, the North Carolina-born regional legend seems to be doing even better in his solo career with his debut EP, Down by the Fire. Having set the stage for his solo career with his 2020 solo, “Thin Disguise”, one can only expect more from his much-promising journey.

Released on March 13, 2021, Down By The Fire, is not just an experimental EP by the artist. It is the culmination of years of experience in the music industry, topped by the fact that two of the songs in the EP, “Thin Disguise” and “Cliché”, have previously taken the coveted #1 position on the iTunes charts. For Williamson, the sky seems to be the limit with his riveting performance in the EP.

The eight-track EP reveals the talent of the prolific rock artist. Down By The Fire begins with the chart-topping single “Thin Disguise”, an enthralling kaleidoscope of bass and electric guitars, and the predominant drum and the raspy vocals of the artist as he bemoans anger, betrayal, and frustration. It is unsurprising that the single that went on to peak at #1 in the South African iTunes charts.

Throughout the EP, the listener is subjected to a roller-coaster of emotions, from the riotous tracks like “Fault Line” and “Cliche” to other softer, more emotional “Interlude” and “Sick Thoughts”. Davy Williamson explores not only himself, life experiences, and his emotions but also his observations of the world around him.

Down By The Fire is just a sneak peek into the overflowing potential of Davy Williamson, and one can only anticipate what he has in store for the rock community in subsequent releases from his budding solo career.

–Kenneth DuJour