Sean Jeffery – The Universe Expands – EP review

The Universe Expands is the title of the 4 track EP released by Worcester based singer/songwriter, Sean Jeffery, back in May.

Gravitational Wave is the first track, and opens with a light shuffling beat and a prominent twang of a guitar riff, before the vocals kick in with Sean’s distinctive lyrics that cleverly take on a universe and space theme that deceptively tell an intriguing love story.

After the first verse and chorus, there is a moment where you feel the track is finishing, but in fact it’s just warming up, and more levels are mixed in to add more musical texture.

The song is delightfully upbeat, a fitting declaration that embraces the joy that the singer would feel if the object of their affection changed their mind and decided to give things a go. A joyful journey back in time would be taken, to this feel good soundtrack.

During the chorus and second verse, a female voice takes on an ethereal backing vocal, courtesy of former Hitchhiker band mate Anna Mason, who also provides guest guitar. It’s a track that drifts through the air with ease, it’s upbeat yet gentle, with no harsh unexpected twists or turns.

Next up is Ghosted, a delicate synth melody that orbits around your head, with a guitar that trickles soothingly alongside this instrumental track. There is a some what ethereal sound to the track, as each layer adds depth and substance. A musical tour through space and sound.

Earthbound is a touch of alt rock, with a grittier beat, and impressive guitar solos. This track is always a fan favourite on Seans livestreams, but takes on a whole new level of professionalism in the form of this polished track, with drums by Chris Daniels, and bass/guitar by the late Jez Cole.  A track worthy of a full band performance, but has proven it can be stripped back and performed acoustically too.
The lyrics literally bring anyone with ideas above their station, crashing back down to earth. A strong message that at the end of the day we are all equals and all await the same fate.

Serotonin takes the pace back down to showcase Seans vocals and clever songwriting, a thought provoking track that winds along beautifully, poetic lines that touch upon self doubt and losing your way, to be drawn to someone who can lift your mood and lead you through, the much needed serotonin. A subtle and fitting final track to this EP. Four very different tracks that seem to sit comfortably together as a collection. The work Sean puts into each release deserves recognition. Hard work and dedication always pay off, as the EP is a great release overall, showing a skill set to be proud of.