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EP REVIEW: Strategies – Strategies

2020 was a year that changed all of our lives when the COVID-19 pandemic started. Whilst we were stuck at home, the time away from our busy lives gave us the opportunity to make time for friendships. STRATEGIES was born out of that. The trio are made up of guitarist Paul Lask (from THE GHOST), drummer Neil Hennessy (from THE LAWRENCE ARMS), and singer Brian Moss (from GREAT APES). They are all old friends from the early 2000s punk and indie rock scenes in Chicago. It started when Lask sent demos to Hennessy and Moss. The result of those demos was their debut self-titled EP.

The four-track EP starts off with Outages. This song is a gentle, guitar-driven number. Its stripped-back nature might not sound very exciting, but there is something welcoming about the song. The lack of big, showy production allows each of the members to shine. Furthermore, the band’s spoken work during the bridge of the song is very effective because it adds something different to the track.

If people were worried that the opening song was too slow, then they shouldn’t worry when they hear Silent Count. The funky bassline of the song really helps pick up the pacing. Furthermore, whilst this is the first outing by STRATEGIES, the fact that the band is made up of seasoned musicians helps a lot, as this is the work of a band who clearly know what their sound is.

Whilst listening to the EP, it is clear that the indie rock scene is what this band love best. In a world that seems bloated by over-produced music, it is refreshing to hear music that is simple yet effective. Whether that is the gentle lull of Fire Drill or the upbeat joy of Camp Elsewhere, this EP has something for everyone.

However, there is one issue about this EP: it’s too short. Whilst this might sound like a hollow criticism, it is a valid one. Of course, the right number of songs for an EP can be hard to figure out because you don’t want it to be too long or too short. However, with only four songs, the band fall a little flat. This is purely due to the fact that the EP sounds a little unfinished. It is a shame because the songs are fun and a joy to listen to. Furthermore, the pacing of the EP is neither too slow or too fast. However, if a couple more songs were added, it would’ve sounded more complete.

In conclusion, the self-titled debut EP by STRATERGIES is a joy to listen to. It is well-crafted, fun, and it is clear that the band have taken their love of indie rock and crafted a fantastic four-song EP. Whilst it is refreshing to hear such simple, stripped-back production, the band do hit a snag because the EP is too short. It leaves it sounding unfinished, which is a shame because they have a lot of talent. On the other hand, if you are looking for a fun, short indie rock record to listen to on a rainy day, then STRATERGIES have the EP for you.

Rating: 8/10

Strategies - Strategies

Strategies is set for release on August 26th via self-release.

Follow STRATEGIES on Instagram.

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