The Give & The Take – The Give & The Take EP (Album Review)

Last weekend Charleston band The Give & The Take released their self-titled debut EP, with an EP Release show at Kudu. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to make it to the show, but I have had the chance to listen to the EP, and it’s very well done. Recorded and produced by Matt Zuttell of Coast Records, The Give & The Take EP has an awesome blues rock vibe that at times reminds me of the Alabama Shakes, except with that special Chucktown vibe that we love to hear so much in local music.

It started with the release of their first single, “Since I Walked Away” a month or so back, thus setting the tone for their sound and paving the way for the release of their EP. Shortly after, I attended their show at The Tin Roof, and guitarist Andrew Tolbert told me that they were working on an EP and that they had played a few songs off it that night. I found myself looking forward to hearing some studio versions, and I can confidently say that the band has delivered the goods. The Give & The Take EP features soulful vocals from Charlotte Laird, tasty guitar licks from Andrew Tolbert, and Jay Kramer holding it all together on the drums.

While the EP as a whole is quality, the song that stands out the most to me is “Dear Self”. As the name suggests, it’s a self-reflective track, with lyrics about growing up in a big Southern house, seemingly with everything one could ask for, and having people tell you that you’ll never have to worry about anything. Of course, this is never the case, and Laird captures the essence of trying to obtain the ever-elusive peace of mind, despite others not understanding that material wealth is far from a ticket to happiness.

Do yourself a favor and listen to The Give & The Take EP. I’ve included a Spotify stream below, and you can also purchase it on Bandcamp for just four bucks. Keep an eye out for your next chance to see The Give & The Take perform live in the Holy City. I’m sure it will be soon.