EP: The Coathangers – ‘Parasite’

Riot Grrrls get ready: Atlanta punk trio The Coathangers have released their latest EP Parasite via Suicide Squeeze, and it’s bursting with style, intent and attitude. The band first stormed on to the scene over a decade ago, but whether you’ve been there from the start, or you’re just arriving at the Coathangers’ party; guitarist & vocalist Julia Kugel explains that Parasite is “a journey through the band’s existence,” so you’ll be up to speed in no time.

Eponymous opener ‘Parasite’ shouts down leech-like behaviour with its brash guitars and direct lyrics -“get out of my fucking life”, whilst following track ‘Wipe Out’ has a false start and grungy guitars which develop in to a surprisingly upbeat, surfer-style chorus. The lyrics aptly explain the personal alcoholic annihilation we all indulge in on the weekends (something many listeners will be able to identify with).

‘Captain’s Dead’ is based on Kugel’s personal experiences of meeting people who fancy themselves as a leader, but they lead nothing”. We’re sure the golden line “You’re out on a treasure hunt, yeah you’re acting like a little cunt” will perfectly dismantle what’s left of any know-it-all’s existing fragile ego. ‘Down Down’ is a brooding spiral of bass lines and volume-shifting guitar riffs, whilst final track ‘Drifter’ lulls along in spaced-out but still-sharp style, quietly closing the EP.

Parasite might be brief in duration (approx. 13 minutes altogether), but these punks don’t waste their breath saying or playing anything they don’t want to. Like the sirens they’re pictured as on the EP’s artwork, The Coathangers are defiant in the face of adversity, and they’ll lure you in with their brand of abrasive, cathartic punk rock.

Parasite is available now as a one-sided 12” on sea green vinyl, with a b-side etching with an initial limited pressing of 2000 copies. The EP is also available digitally. Follow the band on Facebook for more updates.

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut

Kate Crudgington

Kate Crudgington

Assistant Editor for Gigslutz (2015-2017) Now Co-Founder, Co-Host & Features Editor for @getinherears