Album Review: Summer Cannibals

Make You Better EP (New Moss)

By GEOFF NUDELMAN

[MOSS ROCK] When Summer Cannibals released their first full-length, No Makeup, last summer, it was clear the quartet had high ambitions. While the album had plenty of skuzzy guitars, powerful drums and rugged vocals, it also had a certain polish that made it listenable for fans of more mainstream indie rock. 

Since then, the band has recorded Make You Better, an EP that takes an interesting step away from No Makeup. The four tracks retain Cannibals' buzzing harmonies and chugging guitars, but add a distinct layer of aggression that wasn't around on the debut. Vocalist Jessica Boudreaux sings with a little more urgency and ferocity. The band's new rhythm section of bassist Lynnae Gryffin and Valerie Brogden on drums sends the band hurtling in the proper direction, especially on the stomping title track.

Even more than on No Makeup, the songs on this EP feel perfectly placed, and display a maturation in the punk-garage sound the Cannibals are increasingly becoming known for. With the band on the rise, Make You Better is a great next move.

SEE IT: Summer Cannibals play Doug Fir Lounge, 830 E Burnside St., with Hurry Up and Spookies, on Thursday, Jan. 9. 9 pm. $5. 21+.

WWeek 2015

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