EP Review: Penny Rich – On And On (Self Released)

The electrifying noise punk rock band Penny Rich, a three-piece from Cardiff, Wales, will release their new EP, ‘On & On,’ on September 27th, 2024.

Rocking and rolling with all the energetic accessibility of arena stars, but the punk underbelly of a band more used to playing in basements, Penny Rich continue to expand on their boundary pushing sound with four tracks that explore challenging themes and showcase their development as a band.

The rawness that permeates the opening track Fundamentals might give it a more amateurish feel, but the catchiness tells a different story. Penny Rich aren’t glossy and they’re certainly not refined, but they use this to create a more compelling experience that still feels mainstream. Even though they are far from that and more than willing to use noisy punk rock to attack the blight of populism in the UK on heavyweight bangers like the title track.

With a touch more melody, a moodier feel, and with their innate ability to be persistently different, Violent Glitch is the EPs most abrasive listen. However, this comes from an amplified weirdness that explores the destructive impact of OCD and perfectionism in relationships. It’s no secret that these conditions can lead to unexpected and hurtful behaviours, straining personal connections. Penny Rich expressing themselves in haphazard fashion, which could be seen as a stylised way to sum up the thinking of a person dealing with these issues.

Lasty, there’s Broken Mirror, and Penny Rich signing off with the most intense track of the EP, purely because it feels more urgent and chaotic. The sound of a manic mind as the band try admirably to portray the self-hatred, shame, and sadness experienced by those with body dysmorphia. A classy showcase that continues to deliver on the promise of addictive punk rock music from Penny Rich.

Penny Rich – On & On Track Listing:

1. Fundamentals
2. On And On
3. Violent Glitch
4. Broken Mirror

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