REVIEW: GOLD TANGO-EP

by Beth Keating.

Gold Tango's debut EP is short at only three tracks long, and as minimalist as you'd expect for a three piece consisting of only a drummer, guitarist and synth player. Minimalist, yes, but not bare. Two eerily female vocals accompany each other, the effect at times like a multi-layered Antonia Sellbach project. Described as goth-pop, Gold Tango steer away from the chaotic noise usually associated with similar genres, streamlining their sound into a clear, compelling package.

First track, 'Telescope' hides a slightly noise-inspired distorted guitar underneath an intriguing, almost primitive beat, and a subversively psychedelic organ. The vocals, as with the other two tracks on the self-titled EP, are completely without effect. They took a few listens for my ears to adjust - funny, their matte delivery sounds almost abrasive to ears so used to effect-laden, reverb soaked underground rock and roll. There's something quite brave about it - perhaps it's just me - a complete lack of self consciousness...

'Just an Experiment' follows in similar vein to the prior track. Shrieking post-punk inspired guitar riffs resonate throughout, grounded by solid drumming and a subdued organ. It morphs into the slow, infectious guitar drone beginnings of the final track, 'Something in Common'. A minute or so in, the organ starts, humming hypnotically. The introduction of the beat - primitive and mesmerising - melds with the other instruments seamlessly, creating one of those musical moments which resonates so much more deeply than just the ear canals. Gold Tango may not be defined as classic psychedelia, but if this track is anything to go by, they aren't afraid to embrace its darker possibilities.