Nein

Durham, North Carolina trio the Nein blends old-school noise rawk à la Sonic Youth with concussive, chaos-funk rhythms and comes up with a distinct style fresh enough to pique aural interest and catchy enough to induce the moving of feet. Although occasional artsy samples and loops linger nonchalantly in the background, this seven-song EP mainly yields full-on, crunchy rhythm-driven rock. Lyrically, the band plants itself firmly on the overt side of the political fence, with vocalist/guitarist Finn Cohen not so much spoiling for a fight as primed for engagement. To a song, this material sounds like it has considerable live potential, as well. Listeners ought to be prepared to have their appetites well whetted for a full-length debut planned for release sometime in 2005.