The Jezabels – Dark Storm EP

Australian quartet The Jezabels’ most recent EP, Dark Storm, is five tracks of atmospheric indie rock that is hard not to get lost in.

The band is rounded out by drummer Nik Kaloper, guitarist Samuel Lockwood, singer Hayley Mary and Heather Shannon on the keys.  The Jezebels craft tunes that combine the ambiance of Explosions in the Sky with the expansive landscapes of The Color Turning and the emotional vulnerability of Straylight Run.  It’s not often that I’m impressed with a female fronted indie act as they tend to come off shrill and manic.  Mary’s voice is soothing enough to be approachable but has a range that a Tori Amos or Florence + the Machine fan can appreciate.

Normally I’d pick a couple of highlights from the release that’s being reviewed, but in this case every song is solid.  “Dark Storm” matches it’s name perfectly with the sonic tone created by the sustained guitar notes and driving piano.  “Mace Spray” is fantastic earphone fodder.  “Sahara Mahala” is highly cinematic.  “A Little Piece” could double for a eulogy and “She’s so Hard” has an interesting 80s vibe with its electronic pulse.

For fans of any of the aforementioned acts, The Boxer Rebellion and We Were Promised Jetpacks, The Jezabels are right up your alley.

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