Review Summary: Is it God, or is it mom that keeps you from having fun?
Perfect Angel at Heaven are a critic's wet dream of a rock band.
The power trio (that alone adds OG points) oozes 80s and 90s reminiscence in various forms. The hi-energy, dynamics-full riffing a la Sonic Youth is as restless as it packs a (falcon) punch. Still, an indie rock sensibility compensates for what could be, at best, a neat worship, at worst, an epic mess. Opener "Pyramid" hence intelligently accompanies its soaring climax with lil "ooh-oohs, " which cheerfully adds catchiness to its constant riffing. When such attention to detail is enhanced by great production (audible bass is always a treat), it makes for a rewarding listen that is able to leverage the tiniest variation between two musical phrases.
That sensitivity also transpires from the lyrics and themes covered on
EP - the alienation brought by capitalistic conditions, and the duality between feeling both blessed and cursed by our environment, are proclaimed with cryptic lyrics that appeal more to action than resignation. The vocal duo translates this fighting spirit by showing they know when to go for nuanced delivery and when to belt their lungs out.
This EP's only problem, apart from its lazy, dumb name, is its shortness: we want more, and soon, because very few modern bands manage to capture this mixture of noisy guitars, unwavering groove, and resolutely resilient approach.
