The music of Upstart is rooted in soul and R&B traditions, but maintains a restless sense of discovery that defies the restraints of neo-genres that aim to recreate the past. Utilizing classic instrumentation, including horns and Fender Rhodes, Upstart plays catchy, well-crafted songs that feature the groups' strong vocal abilities and sophisticated instrumental playing. Lead singer and trumpet man Michael Cartwright is a talent that harkens to the golden-era of show business: a time when entertainers were complete musicians. His accomplice, the lovely Adryon Gross, is an equally gifted singer whose soulful presence commands the attention of any audience. Josh Bachman compliments them nicely on tenor saxophone while guitarist Andy Ellsworth weaves melodic lines and strumming into Upstart's tight pocket. Drummer Tony Hundtoft composes much of the band's music and adds vocals from behind the drums as Elliott Lawrence anchors the Up-ship with deep, funky bass playing. Meanwhile, Jarod Sheahan, the group's heavy-handed keyboardist, fills in the cracks with lush chords on the Fender Rhodes, groovy organ lines, and vocals as well. Upstart shows considerable growth and maturity on the "Time Don't Tell Me" EP; the songwriting and production display a greater self-understanding from the band as they evolve and continue to discover their musical niche. Additionally, Krish Sharma, who's worked extensively with the Rolling Stones in recent years, beautifully mixed and mastered the EP, putting the finishing touches on a recording that listeners will surely find enjoyable.