MTNS - Salvage EP
It’s post-rock, experimental, synthy and has an undeniable pop element to it. This Brisbane three piece have seemingly struck a winning formula early on their sophomore EP Salvage. MTNS have released a set of songs which will surely assist in garnering some deserved attention, whilst also providing a cohesive artistic statement.
Previously released ‘Lost Track Of Time’ is where the band show off their chops. Swelling strings, melodic and pitch perfect vocal lines and a super catchy chorus. There is a lot of work put into the little things, small echoes here, muted wood (perhaps) there, which ads a great deal of detail and gloss to the final product.
Eponymous opener opens up with some great synth chords, over which a great droney bass is later employed as well as some minimalist drums and smooth-as-butter dreamy vocals. The song structure and rhythm is fairly simplistic, but dang it’s catchy. It flows in beautifully to second track 'Fears' which sees a slightly more complex background ambiance. The plodding bass line is reminiscent of a Cliff Martinez score, which is probably one of the highest compliments one can give to a plodding bass line; It just has that perfect amount of distortion and modulation.
One big area I could see the band expanding on is having a little more variety with is their drum beats, specifically a little more of that syncopation which is becoming ever present in electronic music. There is a saving grace however, the drums sound great given they are live as opposed to programmed which does explain the lack of that electro-disconnect we expect.
MTNS really are on to something with this EP, it’s engaging, features a great remix by M-Phazes and focuses on honing in on that dreamy-pop x post-rock soundscape. You can listen to lead single 'Salvage' below, and purchase the EP here.
MTNS are touring Australia, and play The Causeway in Vic Park on the 1st of February, stay tuned for a feature with the band ahead of their per(th)formance! Tickets for The Causeway show will be available on the door.
