Extra Cosmic
Self-Released, 2022
9/10
A Chicago outfit who probably own a lot Slowdive and Ride records, Panda Riot bring us swirling melodies and wall of sound pop moments that are spearheaded by Rebecca Scott (vocals, keys) and Brian Cook (drum machine, guitar) on this superb 4th album.
The title track starts the listen and immediately bursts into buzzing dream-pop, where sweet vocals and syrupy pop melodies float with much charm, and “Technicolor” follows with a lush and thick haze of shoegaze friendly ideas that points towards the ‘80s in all the best ways.
Further down the line, “Glitterati” is a bit more rugged and brings some post-punk ideas into the equation, while “Ultramarine” is particularly noisy, with much atmosphere that enters in a very pretty way.
Closer to the end, “Future Shock” puts more emphasis on drumming as a thumping presence gets more firm, and “Magic Only” exits the listen with the quartet getting quite muscular yet cautious and just might make you revisit your My Bloody Valentine records.
Cook and Scott are now joined by bassist Cory Osborne and drummer Brian Hilderbrand. Together, they create a powerful, emotional and diverse version of dream-gaze that unfolds across these 13 truly exceptional songs you won’t soon forget.
Travels well with: Nocturnal Blonde- Still Gushing; Leland And The Silver Wells- Straight To Your Town