Explode the TV

Explode the TV’s 'Catching the Rain' EP offers three short tracks of guitar-driven Indie-Rock with clear nods to ’80s New Wave. The opener and title track features pedal-heavy guitar effects alongside a Talking Heads-style disco bassline and a Billie Jean-inspired drumbeat, with a bongo solo in the middle adding an unusual twist.

'1+1=3' comes across as an upbeat take on The Cure’s 'A Forest', though the lyrics hint at a love triangle. Closing track 'Stratosphere' has a similar anthemic feel to previous album 'Unbreakable' highlight 'Naked Eyes', with guitars stretching out and vocals lingering like closing credits.

The EP leans on guitar textures, giving it a retro-tinged yet refreshingly immediate sound. It has an infectious feel, with layered riffs and catchy melodies that linger after listening.

Ivan De Mello