Torche

"Doom pop” outfit Torche return after their stunning self-titled full-length, with this seven-song EP, In Return. Fans familiar with Torche’s previous record, or lead vocalist/guitarist Steve Brooks’ former melodic merchants of destruction Floor, won’t be surprised by In Return but they will be pleased. Clocking in at nearly 20 minutes, and featuring art by current underground "it” guy John Baizley (Baroness), In Return is another heaping helping of Torche’s sludgy goodness. What makes Torche unique (and what Floor so brilliantly struck upon before them) is the juxtaposition of the devastatingly heavy with the melodically catchy. Obviously, the contrast of loud/soft isn’t a new discovery but never has music this heavy been so catchy without compromising one aspect. Down-tuned destruction and "bomb string” explosions effortlessly coincide with pop hooks and melodies, mining the depths of sludge, stoner rock and doom, making for a compelling trip. A brilliant return, this EP will have to tide the devoted over until their sophomore full-length.