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Jul 29, 2016 Web Exclusive By Matthew Berlyant

It seems that after every album they release, the L.A. via Montreal noise-pop group No Joy put out an EP that gives them a chance to release a few tracks not quite suitable for the album in question. Sometimes, these tracks are also like a bridge to where they’ll head to next. This new three song EP is no exception. Following up last year’s excellent third LP, More Faithful (their best work to date), this EP starts off strongly with the sweet as sugar megaton blast of the intriguingly-titled “A Thorn in Garland’s Side.” This song which ranks alongside “Second Spine” (from 2013’s Pastel and Pass Out EP) and “Hollywood Teeth” as one of their best songs to date, the irresistible guitar hook melting in your brain and staying there for days on end. The other two tracks here, “XO (Adam’s Getting Married)” and “Theme Song” aren’t quite as strong and definitely feel like B-sides, but this EP is worth it for the first song alone. Based upon that, long-time fans can only feel excitement at where they’ll head to next. (www.nojoymusic.com)

Author rating: 7/10