From the opening riff of the title track of Muddler’s latest EP Leave room for contemplation, you can tell that there will be several tasteful nods to the edgy pop that graced radio waves in the ‘90s, and even today, given the sound’s timelessness and pure likeability.
While any of the four tracks could serve as prime examples of this sound, “Dogwater” in particular has distinct traces of grunge, but also alt-pop of the same era, channeling the signature fueled and fiery attitudes in every word. “Pure” continues on that sonic theme with whining guitar lines that are aggressively catchy.
The Framingham four-piece closes their EP with “Marching Band,” a track that gives a salute to Muddler’s post-hardcore influences, and the raw energy that surrounds them. It’s that irresistible energy in particular of Leave room for contemplation that leaves room for feelings of frustration, nostalgia, and even, well….contemplation.
Unreal Album Cover photo… circa 1970’s Philipines??