Soul Control

Soul Control's latest release, a four-song EP (with one digital bonus track, "Hodad Song"), is a sleeper that will embed itself in your mind. An initial listen will only reach surface conclusions ― '80s- and '90s-influenced hardcore, with elements of crust and punk thrown in. And that's all true and good, but doesn't convey how contagious the tracks are, something that can't be assured with zero breakdowns, gang vocals and other elements that normally capture listeners' attention. "Peeling Layers" has a slow, plodding, hypnotic tempo, with Van Grol's deadpan voice drawing you in. He doesn't quite scream or growl, he just follows the sluggish, buzzing guitars with his similarly matched voice, and it works. "Slipping" and "Harvester" pick up the pace but carry the same vibe. While over a full-length this might get old, Soul Control keep things very focused and to the point on this fine release.