EP Review: Black Surf – Make Friends (Self Released)

London alternative-rock trio Black Surf are happy to announce their return with the news that they will release not one, but two brand new EPs this year, with EP 1, Make Friends set for release on 15th May 2019.

Bridging the gap between the unorthodox breaks of Grouplove and the hook-heavy passion of Weezer, Black Surf are an intriguing alternative rock melting pot. This new material finds them further exploring their sound, notably with the introduction of electronic music soundscapes and elements of high-concept outsider pop.

Across the four new tracks, front man Alip Epstone often touches on subjects of mental health and mindfulness, notably on lead single ‘Major Regiment’, which he describes as “an observation exploring the very real struggle of battling with the pressures of life, anxiety, depression and just feeling as though you are enough in this world.”

You can’t say that Make Friends isn’t something of a unique listen because it is, it really is. Across four tracks Black Surf make a point of exciting and intriguing the listener. It’s a little bit rock, a little bit punk, a little bit indie and a little bit pop. The comparison to Weezer is fair but fans of the likes of early Supergrass might find themselves enjoying this release too.

Into the Night is an opening oddity that crosses the line between down-tuned fuzzy hooks and catchy vocal hooks. Open Fire is all about bounce blended interestingly with foot-tapping rhythm and flashes of guitar heavy chaos. Eleven Dando (Good Time) is probably the most straight-forward track of the bunch, a simple Weezer-esque harmony. Three tracks, three different ideas that certainly interest.

The EP ends with Major Regiment, the ultimate oddity of the release. From the wacky noise at the start, to the mournful vocals, stop-start rhythm building melody and heavier finish, it’s a class closer to a class EP.

Black Surf – Make Friends Full Track Listing:

1. Into the Night
2. Open Fire
3. Eleven Dando (Good Time)
4. Major Regiment

Head over to Black Surf’s website to find their shop links and get more information. Or you can check out their Facebook Page, Instagram and Twitter.