Unapologetically Powerful, Expressive And Confident: swim school – Seeing It Now Review

Words: Keira Knox

swim school’s debut mixtape EP, “Seeing It Now,” aptly illustrates the band’s ability, talent and continuous progression over the past few years. “Seeing It Now” looks at the future whilst reflecting on their past; presenting new songs and modernised versions of well-known hits to authentically highlight the Scottish trio’s development.

Included in the EP are both original compositions and a fantastic rendition of Pixies’ “Where Is My Mind,” which seamlessly incorporates The Wannadies’ “You & Me Song.” Together with the incredible talents of Lewis Bunting and Billy McMahon, Alice Johnson’s vocals on this EP are nothing short of extraordinary, making for a surefire hit. A new rendition of their song “Anyway” will be included in the physical edition as well.

“Seeing It Now”, the album’s title track, introduces itself immediately; the track is complete with their signature booming drumbeats, room-filling guitar riffs, and Alice Johnson’s haunting vocals. Billy McMahon’s thunderous drumming opens the fierce song “Give Me A Reason Why,” which beautifully complements Alice’s smooth voice. The dominant bass-heavy riffs lead to a thunderous bridge and chorus. This EP perfectly encapsulates swim school’s distinct sound, establishing exactly what they are all about.

“To Grow,” with its gentle pace and acoustic tone, offers an unfamiliar perspective to what we have initially experienced on this EP. The line “I had to lose a part of you to grow” reverberates against the softer chords, giving Alice’s voice the opportunity to produce some stunning harmonies. A strong, poignant, and emotive track that presents a previously undiscovered aspect of swim school. It is raw and exposed.

The endless talent and unwavering work ethic of swim school is flawlessly captured in this mixtape EP. As they embark on their first headline tour, swim school’s latest EP sets the record straight: they are here to take on the industry. “Seeing It Now” is unapologetically swim school, it is powerful, expressive, and confident.

For fans of Wolf Alice, Paramore, Pale Waves and Inhaler, this EP is for you!