Reviewed by Rachel Eadon

UK group The Vaseline Rats have been around since 2004 and are headed up by singer, songwriter and bassman Pete MZ Emms, who has worked with a lot of different bands over his career including Judas Priest and once played the Cross Rhythms Festival with his band. 'et al' is The Rats' demo EP and was made with session musos as Pete assembles his group's regular lineup and is definitely for those who like their music heavy. It's a first class example of progressive rock, with stunning guitar work and ever-changing melodies. The lyrics aren't to memorable but they cannot detract from such a sonically exciting sound. The tunes are certainly catchy - the title track has more than an element of funk about it, and "All The Ones" is dark and brooding. As an introduction to what could one day be a big mainstream outfit, 'et al' is well worth searching out.

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