by Jamie Glenwright
After six years of radio silence (aside from live performances), Attica Riots finally released their second EP. Life’s a Sugar Pill dropped on December 9th of last year, and it doesn’t disappoint at all. It has the same upbeat, melancholy-ish vibe they are known for. Their new EP has five songs that are all lovely in their own ways, and I’m thrilled to have the pleasure of reviewing them all as my first article for Stylus.
“Mile Away,” the fifth and last song on the EP, is hands down the best song on the album. It talks about a missing girl in a small town, with lyrics repeating “she’s just a mile away,” with a chilling guitar and bass track that really adds to the whole atmosphere of the song. Hearing this song live in concert feels like you’re actually in this scenario and helping a search crew look for the girl. Absolutely chilling.
However, I do not want to overlook the quality of the other songs on the album. “Baptism,” the first tune, is amazing because it has a slow, easy-going tone with an amazing guitar track.
The second track on the album, “Forgiven,” has a more upbeat party spirit to it, with darker lyrics. You can definitely dance to this one.
“Mountain,” the third song, has a bittersweet energy with a slow and calm piano track throughout. The fourth track, “Who’s That?” is a slower and more chilled-out tune, with a mellow drum and guitar track. This song also has a darker mood by evoking a sense of paranoia by repeating the lyrics “who’s that?” Chilling, disturbing, but punchy.From the slow and reassuring vibe of “Baptism” to the mysterious and darker sound of the final track, “Mile Away,” this album is nothing short of beautiful. I highly recommend that you check out the EP, especially if you are interested in listening to more local bands.