Robin Ross & The TW Howlers’ debut EP “Back To The Forest” is a spirited and rootsy collection of songs that balances grit, heart and a strong sense of place. Across its five tracks, the duo—singer-songwriters Robin Ross and TW Howell—invite listeners into a world where nature, truth and rock and roll coexist in harmony. The record opens with “Back To The Forest”, a boogie rock track that leans heavier into blues-rock swagger, its riffs and vocal interplay giving it an almost live-in-the-room energy. It’s like it comes from a Savoy Brown album! Then we have “Little Bit Older”, which is a more complex song, has a certain arena-rock aura and its guitar phrases wave a strong, enchanting tapestry. “Walk With Me” is a warm, mid-tempo number that immediately sets the tone: earthy guitars, folk-blues grit and a lyrical invitation to connect with something deeper. It feels like the kind of song that could be played around a campfire, yet it carries a steady rock backbone that keeps it driving forward. “Whiskey and Ice” stands out as the EP’s centerpiece. Set in storm-threatened New Orleans, it blends environmental anxiety with personal resilience. The recurring refrain offers comfort and determination, and the track’s urgent tempo mirrors the looming danger in the lyrics. It’s a song with cinematic weight, pairing narrative detail with a hard-edged groove. The EP ends with “Pass Line”, which is a bluesier version of Bob Dylan. “Back To The Forest” is a serious effort of rock energy. With sharp songwriting, lively performances, and a balance between introspection and fire, Robin Ross & The TW Howlers deliver an EP that feels timeless and has a certain, interesting point of view!
♦ 8/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos
