Mixing Old With New

After finishing the songs that subsequently became their stylish self-titled debut for Sacred Bones, Exploded View went back into the studio for round two. The album’s Bandcamp description mentions how their method of blending new material with early outtakes marks a “step forward for the band, revealing more clarity and focus than the first, yet retaining a certain messy experimentalism that gives them the freedom they crave.” Summer Came Early EP is much smaller than its predecessor, with only four songs to listen to, but finds the band delving into new sounds, making a turn for a more sultry psychedelic pop world with an excess amount of hip, cool sounds and influential harmonies.

Exploded View formed in 2014 when Annike Henderson, a solo singer, met Martin Thulin, Hugo Quezada and Amon Melgarejo. At the time, each member worked with different bands: Thulin with Los Fancy Free and The Crocodiles, Quezada with Robota, and Melegarejo with Jessy Bulbo and Not Llamamos; however the four got together and began collaborating as an excitingly cohesive postmodern punk group. Henderson leads the band with her exuberant vocals, Thulin brings thundering drumming and guitar riffs, Quezada creates eccentric living bass lines and Melgarejo controls extra chaotic guitar work; all members contribute something eclectic to the table.

“Summer Came Early,” the intro song, is like a love affair with nature. It’s an exquisitely pleasant track that talks endlessly about the environment. Alluding to the future of our generation, the song is both sad and melodically relaxing, but complex at the same time. The dynamic and cohesive track pairs quiet sounds with massive moments, even more compelling in the song’s music video. It’s especially chilling when she sings “but we sat on our porches and we didn’t question a thing.” Throughout, the song is a desperate cry out to protect the one planet that we have.

“Forever Free” has the theme of finding a cure within yourself, even when you’re trapped in your own mind. The song starts off heavily experimental, utilizing strange sounds in order to create a unique melody. The tempo is slow, yet still solid and stunning, building to a bigger climax the entire song. Reminiscent of ’80s synth-pop, the song stays true to the sound that the group intends to project.

The third track “Mirror of the Madman” is instantly catchy, while also having the most psychedelic vibe out of all the songs on the EP. It’s sophisticated and soulful while still having this gritty, grungy feeling that perfectly complements the overall surf-rock elements in the song. The production is superb, and sounds great in headphones or in the car. Bursting drums and guitars are a work of instrumental genius, hinting at another step forward in the group’s experimental sound.

The last track “You Got a Problem Son” starts off incredibly eccentric, with some crazy piano before delving into psychedelic guitar riffs and hammering bass. This track is especially fun to listen to, another favorite off the album. With heavy distortion and a grungy, lo-fi sound, this song definitely gets better with repeated play. The biggest problem with the track is that it’s simply not long enough, as the pristine quality really raises the bar.

Overall, Summer Came Early EP will leave listeners on the edge of their seats, wanting more from the band. It’s a really satisfying EP to listen to, with the potential to be the soundtrack of your winter. Cohesive and raw, it’s an incredibly introspective delight with plenty of depth. Each track flows together while staying unique, stylistic and inviting. By blending old school synth-pop concepts with experimental and psychedelic alternative rock, Exploded View has really outdone themselves with this latest release — it’s definitely worth picking up a copy to listen to.