New Tongues – Suite EP 12″ (Expert Work Records)

The Suite EP, released by Columbia, Missouri-based noise-rock/post-hardcore band New Tongues in 2014, is a stunning follow-up to their magnificent full-length debut, We Are The Ones We Have Been Waiting For. The EP, available on clear and black vinyl through Expert Work Records, as well as on cassette via Already Dead, showcases New Tongues’ transition to a more complex and polished sound while still highlighting the essential qualities of noise rock and post-hardcore. New Tongues continues to skillfully navigate the realms of chaos and order on the Suite EP, utilizing intense vocal harmonies, cleverly assembled chord progressions, riffs, and leads. The band’s ability to strike a balance between these elements is a testament to their growth and craftsmanship. Despite the shift to a more polished sound, they manage to retain the raw energy and intensity that defined their earlier work.

The basslines on the Suite EP play an equally important role. They add depth and warmth to the overall mix while delivering powerful punches from below. The basslines are present almost equally as guitars in the mix and serve as a foundational element, ensuring that each composition maintains its driving force. New Tongues’ attention to detail in this aspect keeps the EP grounded in its noise rock and post-hardcore roots. The drummer offers an impressive range of intricacy. His contribution spans across various perfectly arranged percussive acrobatics, creating an energetic performance that pushes the entire band forward. This wide spectrum of rhythms, breaks, and fills showcases the drummer’s skill and adds another layer of musicality to the band’s sonic palette, while the precision and creativity in the drumming keep the compositions cohesive, pushing the boundaries of the music.

While Suite EP mainly consists of intense and dynamic tracks, it also features a calmer, nearly post-rock songs. However, New Tongues execute this change in ambiance flawlessly. The band demonstrates an impeccable sense of style and delivers a more subdued atmosphere with finesse. Each composition on the EP is imbued with a rich and luxurious reverberant ambiance, allowing every instrument to be vividly heard and appreciated. The Suite EP is a must-have for noise rock, post-rock, and post-hardcore enthusiasts. It showcases New Tongues’ growth as a band and their ability to create thoroughly arranged music while maintaining the core elements of their genre. The effort and thought put into assembling these tracks are evident in the EP’s outstanding quality. It is a release that will undoubtedly become a favorite among listeners.

In conclusion, this material demonstrates New Tongues’ evolution as a band, showcasing their transition to a more intricate and polished sound while still retaining the essential characteristics of noise rock and post-hardcore. The intense vocal harmonies, cleverly assembled musical elements, warm basslines, and impressive drumming create a rich, dynamic, and well-rounded listening experience. The Suite EP is a standout release that will captivate and resonate with fans. Head to Expert Work Records for more information about ordering.