Coves shoegazed on to the scene in 2011, carrying a sound possessing bass drums laden with celestial synth heavy choruses. However, in their latest work, Spectrum, listeners can encounter a starkly different tone.

The EP opens with ‘Shot To The Wall’, a bold track that propels the duo’s sound out of the initial relatively generic indie pop bracket and into a subtle and sophisticated zone, with its mid Western-esque opening riff that sets a lively tone to the following songs. Coves suggest experimentation with the second track, ’No Looking Back’, through the use of untampered keys that escalate in accordance to the steady drum, and high pitched, lo-fi guitar chiming in at arbitrary points, accentuated by Beck Wood’s light and pensive vocals.

Coves have concocted an E.P that serves as a breath of fresh air amongst the uniform sounds currently being emitted from indie artists. Although there are hints of staple tones as displayed in the third track, ‘Twist’ – an assertive and scuzzy track with synth pop elements – they have managed to express their individuality as an act by taking advantage of unique vocals and combinations of instruments. ‘No Ladder’ is a dreamy end, it accompanies the sound of traditional Indian music with sharp beats. Wood’s voice, almost a whisper, soars over the pleasant cacophony of instruments making the EP possess a whimsical and wistful ambience.

Spectrum is out now via Nettwerk Records.

Oseta Agboaye