Review: “Out of Reach” by West Ferry

Local Emo Punk band West Ferry is back delivering their familiar sad and sadder sound with their new EP Out of Reach. With its somber lyrics paired with upbeat punk rock rhythms, West Ferry’s gift for juxtaposition can trick a listener into thinking everything in the world is just right… that is until one slows down and pays attention to the actual story being told: tales of giving up, giving in and walking away. 

Composed of four Buffalo natives, Shawn McDonell (guitar/vocal), Brent Feuz (bass), Brian Siklinski (guitar), and Joe Vallone (drums), the band has seemingly settled into their niche since forming in 2015. 

The new five-song EP straps its listeners in for an emotionally unstable roller coaster propelled by danceable rhythms and dramatic melodies. It starts with the album cover artwork, setting the tone with the depiction of a young man chipping away at what seems to be an insurmountable pile of tree logs, with just himself and a small ax, giving off feelings of both determination and defeat. Very similar to the feeling one would get in the middle of a Buffalo winter: tired, cold yet intent on making a go at it for the sake of survival. 

The opening track “Everyone/Everything” is one and a half minutes of desperation and borderline self-deprivation. It then rushes, diving into a wall of frustration-filled contempt.  The EP’s title track “Out of Reach/Still in Sight” wraps up the ride with a feeling of optimistic sadness that comes from a place of darkness holding onto a glimmer of hope.  

 To celebrate and introduce Out of Reach, West Ferry hosted a release party at Mr. Goodbar back in August. They shared the stage with fellow “sad rockers” Hyper View and indie band Hello London, no doubt making it a night of partying with undertones of sorrowful contempt.

Out of Reach gives fans of West Ferry the sad, sometimes slightly bitter, yet danceable sound they have been accustomed to. Although, it does leave me wondering how the band will evolve from here and if a full-length album would have more to say. 

If you aren’t familiar with the band and desperately need to feel all the feels while you move your feet, I recommend giving them a listen. Or better yet, catch them live and ride the emotional roller coaster in real life!

You can learn more about West Ferry from their artist page on The List!