New York trio Aneurysm June are causing quite a stir on American shores. When listening to this EP, this becomes understandable. Catchy hooks, witty rhythmic changes and even dabbling into the occasional Spanish lyrics. In fact, considering that the nationalities of each member range from Spanish to French to Taiwanese, it’s rather surprising that the band’s communication is so tightly-knit. I say, kudos to any group that can afford to blend flamenco melodies with “Portnoy-style” tom fills.

The comparison to Radiohead in melancholic track ‘Ghost Horses’ is uncanny, but vocalist Cesar Fontela manages to pull it off with his own tinges, and not merely imitate Yorke. The result is a distinguished piece of art, one that if properly aided, could set this group flying high. This acknowledgement resonates throughout ‘Strawberries on the Asphalt.’ There is nothing typical about the tracks whatsoever, and this element of surprise really emphasises the thought process undertaken to produce such a colourful collection of songs. Listen to album opener, ‘Fade Away.’ No, it’s not ‘Sweet Home Alabama,’ the sceptic might ask! The eerie change in chord progressions brings about an almost prog-rock feel, and well, it creates one hell of a song.

There is a sort of elegance about the style in which Fontela sings. His strong Spanish accent, though apparent in each track, could not be better suited to the songs. Likewise, drummer Mathieu’s use of jumpy double bass fills really adds to the experimental aspect that the band has been searching for. Last but certainly not least, bassist Benjamin’s jazzy, swinging basslines really help to create the trademark sound that Aneurysm June promotes.

Having already played several local gigs and also appeared on at least six nationwide radio stations, the band are receiving press coverage that they truly deserve. If in the NYC area, be sure to them out.

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