We generally want three things out of an EP: first off, we want a sense that the band knows it only has 20-30 minutes to “show and tell” the hell out of themselves, as EPs act like business cards more than real showcases of artistic legacy. Secondly, we want a sense that the band isn’t “finished” yet, since EPs are also great places to showcase more experimental fare. Lastly, we want to want more out of the band, as if an EP is the free trial for the new fancy program coming in 90 days. It’s a simple formula to grade just about every EP we get to review here at Radio Exile. Lanterns. [Myspace], a San Diego punk rock band, eagerly succeeds on all three fronts.

On Apocalypse Youth, Lanterns. blows out my speakers with fervently passionate vocals and some of the best-sounding drums I’ve heard in months. Though it’s often difficult to figure out exactly what is being said in the lyrics, it oftentimes doesn’t appear to matter. This EP is meant to be blasted, not decrypted, and it sounds fantastic on 11. It makes me want to plunk down 5 bucks to see them at a showcase event, which I will almost definitely do if they ever show up to the centre of the universe (that’s Toronto, btw).

As a business card, Apocalypse Youth feels solid. It’s very clear what Lanterns. are trying to do (but could they do it without the period at the end of their name? It’s screwing up my word processor), and that’s rock like Pearl Jam and carry the weight of absolutely no one. The instructions here are “to rock,” and it seems to end there. At the same time, songs “End-Times Blues” and “Electric Warrior Kisses” suggest further dimensions to the alterna-punk-gaze, emphasizing the “-gaze” section with aplomb.

All three of my criteria are satisfied (rule 3.5, sort of an obvious opposite to “leave me wanting more” is to make sure I don’t get sick of you in 20 minutes. That’s satisfied too). Bring on an LP and tour schedule opening for Animal Collective and The Kills.

“Creation Myth” [mp3]

Last 5 posts by K Sawyer Paul

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