The Evens

When we last heard from the Evens, they'd released back-to-back albums over a two-year period and it looked like Minor Threat/Fugazi frontman Ian MacKaye had his first bona fide project since the Fu announced their hiatus. The Evens, which saw MacKaye paired with real-life partner Amy Farina, also showed the punk icon exploring sounds outside of the hardcore sphere. After a five-year absence (presumably to spend time with their child), the Evens are back with the appropriately titled 2 Songs seven-inch. Not much has changed since the group went on hiatus. Farina's vocals take lead on first song "Warble Factor" which has great guitar and drums. MacKaye has his turn on "Timothy Wright," though Farina has a large vocal presence as well. Musically, the tracks are similar to each other and the group's past work. With Farina on drums and MacKaye on baritone guitar, the Evens' sound is sparse and dark, though they make it work, and this is a good tease for a rumoured LP in 2012.