There’s something highly primal and raw about ‘Dark Ice Balloons’. Built over unwavering distortions and fast-paced rock grooves, the record manages to transmit heaviness and punchiness, yet with a certain malleability and elegance. At times indie, at others pop-punk-oriented, the EP sees Brooklyn-based outfit Nihiloceros return with a substantial new offering, after a string of singles earlier this year.
They must be doing something right! Catchy and never obvious, ‘Dark Ice Balloons’ also benefits from the contrast with its nuanced and meaningful lyricism. While the fuzzy guitar riff might give another impression, the EP seeks to delve deeper into the many layers of human consciousness, oscillating between positivity and negativity with charming flair. It’s here that we should perhaps mention the relatability of the whole record, a sign that Nihiloceros do care about the ‘pop’ factor in their work.
It makes sense: aiming to connect with listeners worldwide, the American band wraps unhinged rock arrangements around more conventional songwriting – a formula that’s clearly working for them.
Recommended! Discover ‘Dark Ice Balloons’ on Spotify:
