Here we are again: a new edition of Stop, Rock n’ Roll! As summer winds down, here are five local cuts that are sure to keep the heat going.
Impulse – “Ledge”
Local hardcore band Impulse recently dropped their new EP, Surge of Nerve. However, kicking off the six-track tape is a song that stands out as a bit of a curveball. “Ledge,” rather than obliterate the listener with screaming and blast beats, kicks off with an almost post-punk feel very reminiscent of early Joy Division. The tempo is moderate yet tense, allowing a haunting guitar line to play out for a majority of the track. Towards the end, the ferocity present on the rest of the EP kicks in as howling chords and visceral screams bring the song to a vicious end.
Dogs Downstate – “Clear”
Dogs Downstate have released their debut self-titled EP. The opening track, “Clear,” immediately shows the listener what’s to come. Big, atmospheric guitars spill over one another as the rhythm section drives things along. The vocals, rather than float amidst the noise, instead stake their claim to sonic territory, giving the song extra clarity. The overall feeling of the song is immense, particularly during the massive bridge.
Award – “White Knight”
Breaking out of the chrysalis that was the experimental Leatherrax, Award shocked me at first by seeming fairly accessible in comparison. However, upon deeper listening, the experimentation is still on display on their self-titled debut EP. Case in point: “White Knight.” The verses read as classic indie rock: throbbing bass, airy guitars, and minimal drums. However, the choruses explode in intensity as everything gets cranked to 11. The ending is even wilder, with the drums slowing to a half-time crawl and a cascade of guitar feedback wailing over everything.
Releasing Orange – “Park Bench”
Releasing Orange is a band that seemingly defies description. On their debut album, Lunar Tides, songs jump all over the place when it comes to genre. However, the album’s closing track, “Park Bench,” sums up the band’s strengths and the path they’d be wise to follow. Dreamy, reverb-drenched guitars paint against the backdrop provided by a groovy drum and bass combo. The chord progression is melancholic while feeling blissful at the same time. For as eclectic an album as this one, this track feels like the perfect closer.
Balloon Thief – “Cease & Desist”
Balloon Thief return with their newest EP, Hole in my Head. The oddball lyrics, progressions, and production the band is known for, are still present across the EP’s four blistering tracks. Easily the biggest surprise, however, is closing track “Cease & Desist.” Instead of coming off like an Aussie egg punk classic as most of their songs do, this one feels more like a Ramones/Gizmos track. This raw power allows the song to hit like a battering ram, featuring a truly memorable chorus, frenetic guitar work, and a wild ride from start to finish. •