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District3 – District3 EP review

District3, formerly known as GMD3, rose to fame during the 2012 series of The X Factor. Mentored by Louis Walsh, the trio was eliminated during the sixth live show after finding themselves up against Union J in the sing-off. During their time on the show, the group struggled to find their sound which we suspect was probably down to Louis Walshā€™s poor song choices. On the back of touring, District3 have just released their first EP.

The self-titled release contains 6 original songs that finally showcase what the group can do. Sounding nothing much like they did on The X Factor, itā€™s clear that District3 has found their sound and dare we say we prefer it to their show rivals Union J? Mixing acoustic melodies with beats and strong harmonies, the trio have certainly come out fighting with their first release. Likely knowing that success isnā€™t guaranteed post-X Factor the group have pulled out all the stops.

Opening with the beat-driven Letā€™s Reload, the EP gets off to a strong start with Dan, Micky and Greg showcasing impressively tight harmonies. Despite a little bit of unnecessary swearing, after all the fanbase for the group are young teens, the song is a strong effort and it gives you a real sense of who District3 really is. Hello adds some electro-beats for an up-tempo moment and the boys strip it back for ballad Dead To Me which is a piano-led track showcasing their vocals. Rapper Bigz contributes to Chasing Silhouettes which sounds like a hit in the making and EP closer More and More shows that the boys can pull off a purely acoustic number.

The standout moment on the EP is the hand-clap driven What You Know About Me? The mid-tempo number is one of those songs that will become a live favourite. Lyrically it talks about struggling to make it and deals with the wrong perceptions people can have of you. The harmonies are strong and the song has a bit of an R&B influence that works well with the individual membersā€™ vocals.

District3 EP is a strong release from District3. Weā€™d be lying if we didnā€™t say we are a bit surprised just how good it is. During The X Factor we probably wouldnā€™t have given the band a second glance but their own material is truly impressive. This could be the start of big things and with material this strong we think Union J need to be a bit worried. Job well done boys ā€“ we love an underdog!

Pip Ellwood-Hughes
Pip Ellwood-Hughes
Pip is the owner and Editor of Entertainment Focus, and the Managing Director of PiƱata Media. With over 19 years of journalism experience, Pip has interviewed some of the biggest stars in the entertainment world. He is also a qualified digital marketing expert with over 20 years of experience.

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