Basic Instructions - EP

Album Review

Ikara Colt continues with a blistering dance-punk sound on Basic Instructions EP, the band's second release. This glassy set grinds post-punk bits with the sultry vocal swagger of Paul Resende and Claire Ingram. They were vocally inseparable in defining the band's campy style on the first album, and they're equally cool this time around, giving extra guff on a few new tracks. "Bring It to Me" writhes on white-hot riffs for a sharp, distortion-heavy disposition before shifting into the wicked new version of "May B 1 Day." This particular cut, which is already included on Chat and Business, finds Ikara Colt experimenting with explosive electro beats inside an already impressive minimalistic approach. Basic Instructions EP is a little rash, but that's part of Ikara Colt's appeal. This five-song EP is a fight-hungry punch to the gut of candied pop, and the maddening sonic boom of "Panic" makes certain of that. Ikara Colt has unleashed a fury once more, crafting yet another dynamic look at what's yet to come from the London four-piece.