Scuzz-rock
Since reviewing Ragweed's last EP they've undergone some changes physically, sporting a brand new Bassist and backing vocalist (Sophie) and with Nick on drums; front man Tom is still in the driving seat though, penning another set of scuzzy, grunge infused surf-pop tunes. Surprisingly, despite the changes the Ragweed sound has remained pretty constant with Tom's schizophrenic vocal approach (screams one moment, whispers the next) and the overall blanket of distorted noise approach still overlaying everything.
Actually, even though the style remains constant, here the tunes feel more focused; those great melodies seep through even more and everything just feeling more cohesive in general. A particular favourite on this new record is Habit, an instantly catchy number with a mix of carefully controlled segments and distorted mania, the opening moments - off kilter vocals with the lightest of backing which quickly descends into blasts of intense guitar and heavy hit drums are fantastic. Fat Collapse is also a corker, a lovely chunky bass line feeds into some really hooky riffage. Nicely done as always.