If you want your Rock to not only sound great but have a lyrical depth that adds so much to the experience then Vermantics’ latest four‑track EP ‘The Pictures You Paint’ (released July 4, 2025) is an essential, dramatic and emotionally charged ride through the highs and lows of connection and introspection.
If you’re going to start big then start with a bang. This EP simply explodes with the fierce intensity of ‘Come Alive’. Theres a huge groove and a wonderful rhythm to Stefan Fedele’s soaring vocals which sound wonderful here, all to the backing of thunderous guitars. This is most certainly Rock and Roll.
Conversely ‘How Does it Feel’ showcases the depth of the songwriting here, it’s not all about the ‘in-your-face’ rockers. We find ourselves deliberately slowed, the pace drops, and the mood softens. Subtlety here is the key and as the songs shifts and slides through delicate matters and unsteady terrain it provides a real glimpse into the real warmth and heart of the band. This one gets more addictive with each listen.
‘Fake It’ that follows takes a look at the masks we hide behind and lays it all bare upon some essential alt-rock hooks. It’s a great song that cuts and bites whilst maintaining a great groove. A song that is bound to sound ever bigger ‘live’.
We close the EP with the uplifting ‘Open Up Your Dreams’ it’s a wonderful piece of music that enfolds you and lifts you up to that bright blue sky that is full of hope and shot with strands of those dreams we all have. It’s the most expensive track here, the most cinematic in scope and one that both moves and motivates. The perfect way to close.
Co‑produced by Phil Threlfall and mastered by Andrei Eremin, the EP is crisp yet unpolished, there’s a real feel that they have eschewed over-clarity in favour of a glimpse of their live sound. The musicianship and chemistry on display allow that leeway and you feel that adds to the authenticity. The band sound wonderful too with Stefan and Daniel Fedele with the addition their cousin Julian Perrotta, and our old mate Jack Stevenson who adds searing guitar.
This EP might just be the next big step for Vermantics. It follows on from their explosive singles like “Come Alive” and “Don’t Think Twice,” and comes after a well-received debut UK tour. With ‘The Pictures You Paint’, they channel that touring fire into a studio statement that is more than compelling, it’s essential. Great songs, great musicianship and something to say – this EP is a must-listen and another giant stride forward from the debut ‘Tomorrow Might Be Too Late’.
9/10
Tracklisting – ‘The Pictures You Paint’
Come Alive
How Does It Feel
Fake It
Open Up Your Dreams
Vermantics are:
Stefan Fedele (Vocals)
Daniel Fedele (Bass)
Jack Stevenson (Lead Guitar)
Julian Perrotta (Drums)
