Three Songs EP

Although self-categorized as “slacker rock,” Brooklyn’s LVL UP are quite an ambitious band. In only a few short years, they have released two critically acclaimed LPs, as well as a number of singles and splits with other indie darlings such as Porches, Ovlov and Radiator Hospital. Three Songs, the band’s new EP, is a quick but fulfilling demonstration of LVL UP’s ability to write incredibly understated indie-pop classics. In typical fashion, a different member of the band takes the lead on each of the EP’s songs. Opener “The Closing Door” is a mid tempo headbanger with drowsy leads soaring over the constant roar of fuzzed-out guitar and bass, followed by the quick & poppy sing-a-long “Blur,” which offers the record’s catchiest moments. “Proven Water Rites” ends the EP at it’s most melancholy, slowly building momentum from a melodic, steady rhythm into an intense and explosive end. With a full US tour booked around the release of Three Songs, LVL UP’s unique style of not-so-slacker rock won’t be under anyone’s radar for long.