Century Egg – Little Piece Of Hair 12″ EP (Forward Music Group)

There is a plenty of outstanding indie rock bands out there, and you can’t even say anything negative about their music because they all sound equally good. However, the groups that are popping out from the crowd are rare today, so some of those groups may sound similar or almost the same. Luckily, there are several groups who’re articulating in an entirely unique, divine, pleasant way. I have to admit I awaited the copy of this vinyl release with anticipation. Century Egg is one of those rare gems on the indie scene that are shapeshifting the aesthetics of the genre beyond any limits. There’s something about their sound that forces me to crave for more every time I spin their latest record. I was instantly hooked on their perfectly executed indie-rock numbers right from the start.

Little Piece Of Hair represents their second EP that carries six beautiful indie rock compositions. Previously, Century Egg released an equally good We Can Play EP, but somehow it seems that Little Piece Of Hair goes a step further. The group evolved with this particular material and took everything on another level. It’s nearly mindblowing how they retain their distinctive approach to indie rock but made quite a progress within a year since releasing their debut. Besides such a characteristic indie rock sound, Century Egg explores some other genres along the way, such as indie pop, power pop, seventies hard rock, alternative, new wave, and post-punk. Nevertheless, these ingredients are serving more as accentuations that are in so many ways defining particular compositions.

The chord progressions, harmonies, melodies, and other sonic delicacies are resembling those previously heard in the music of renowned groups such as Gang Of Four, The Clash, The Pretenders, The Smiths, Ramones, Descendents, Thin Lizzy, but there’s more than meets the eye. Perhaps Century Egg comes close to these bands soundwise, but their music goes more toward indie rock and indie pop aesthetics. For some reason, their music articulates in a more sophisticated manner than any of those beforementioned bands. Each one of these tunes includes loads of thoughtful arrangements, wisely implemented ideas, and exceptional musicianship. The robust rhythm section gives more power to this mix through powerful basslines and excellent drumming performance. The lead vocals are layering these orchestrations with another layer of melodies through occasionally high-pitched chants. Century Egg sounds charming and pleasant from scratch to finish.

Little Piece Of Hair comes with such an interesting, nearly abstract illustration on the front cover. The vinyl carries all the tunes on one side, while the other side is etched. Little Piece Of Hair is also available at all streaming services. Head over to the Forward Music Group for more detailed information about ordering this vinyl record.