EP REVIEW: Fugaz – Karen Dió

Rising punk rocker KAREN DIÓ has put out their latest EP, Fugaz. For DIÓ, two things are important: shining a light on Brazil’s punk scene for a global audience to discover and enjoy, and knowing that nothing is permanent. The latter point coming from constant moves she went through growing up, in her words, “I have to be so unattached to friends, things, and objects.” Yet that energy has translated into her music, causing her to explode online with songs like Sick Ride.

She’s an exciting force, a fact solidified by this EP from start to finish. Opening things up is Euphoria, a high energy track from the very second the fast-paced guitar comes in once you press play. You’re intrigued and excited, especially from the vocals that match the energy put out. And then we get to the anthemic chorus that makes you want to bounce and scream along even on your very first listen. It’s an experience for sure, one that combines elements of modern and early noughties punk, giving it a teenage nostalgia for you to indulge in.

In fact, the whole EP is the perfect gateway to revisit a teenage version of yourself that you might have locked away and felt nervous to show to the world. At long last, a part of you that wanted to shout out loud and rebel against the world has been released and is now here to enjoy sounds both current and nostalgic. Whether it be the 90s alternative influence heard on Free Yourself, that also brings in fuzzy, electronic rock on this catchy track, or the title track that goes into more serious, melancholic territory, at least in the beginning, before sharply shifting into heavier punk sounds. Then, softly transitioning back into moody, and back again.

Or maybe you needed a reason to scream along. Well KAREN has you covered with in-your-face tracks Choke and Rat Race where you hang onto every word. You await eagerly for that command to let loose and jump into the nearest sweaty pit. Oh, and we also have Crawling that is one part brutal, one part melancholic with comparison to YEAH YEAH YEAHS‘ Maps.

This EP is punchy, unforgettable and only makes you want to hear more from KAREN DIÓ.

 Rating: 10/10

Fugaz is out now via Hopeless Records. 

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