East-coasters-turned-west-coasters Black River Killers' new EP Alma Beach is a tight, five-song trip. Their stripped-down rock duo sound is reminiscent of early JEFF the Brotherhood, with melodic vocals sitting on top of some classic and simple guitar riffs. The EP opens with "Demons," a track that begins with a laidback guitar melody before giving way to the loud and fast nature of the rest of the release. The dynamic nature of this cut makes it a standout on Alma Beach.
The problem with Alma Beach is that the whole thing sort of sounds exactly the same. The dynamics of "Demons" don't follow throughout the whole EP, opting for a more shock-and-awe, loud and fast route for the rest of the record. The exception is "Fool" a slow, sad surf ballad in the middle of the EP. Live, Black River Killers might be really great, but that loud, almost constant thrashing can become a bit repetitive on a record.
(Independent)The problem with Alma Beach is that the whole thing sort of sounds exactly the same. The dynamics of "Demons" don't follow throughout the whole EP, opting for a more shock-and-awe, loud and fast route for the rest of the record. The exception is "Fool" a slow, sad surf ballad in the middle of the EP. Live, Black River Killers might be really great, but that loud, almost constant thrashing can become a bit repetitive on a record.