steering clear of the mainstream
since 2001

june 2010

review
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info opinion

The Ios

Self-titled CDR EP

Self-released

Genre: indie pop

e-mail the band

Aug 18 - 24 2003

The Ios' self-titled 3 song debut EP is a fun, catchy pop disc, but not one that will have you on the edge of your seat waiting for their next release. The band's style is catchy, but unspectacular. Opener "Chattanooga" blends eighties synths with poppy indie rock; the chorus is instantly catchy but can become annoying after a few listens. The vocals are amateur and nasal, yet fun in a youthful, energetic sense.

"Laika," meanwhile, knocks things down a notch. It's a calmer pop tune that's focused almost completely on melody. The endearing female vocals go nicely with the restrained guitar, percussion, and synth melody; it kind of has a Belle and Sebastian feel. All in all, it is a very enjoyable and catchy tune. "Cheers, looting," which finishes off the EP, isn't a particularly strong track, but features a pleasantly sublime melody and a sense of joy that will likely get your mouth curving into a smile.

This EP is nothing special, but can be regarded as a solid EP from a new up-and-coming indie pop band. 

80%

Matt Shimmer

[Vitals: 3 tracks, distributed by the band, released 2003]