The excellent Ryan Allen is generally more down and dirty in Extra Arms mode, both solo and as a band. Extra Arms are usually splendidly noisy with Punk sentiments, although the chorus and melody have always offered a Pop sensibility.
Indeed I've always thought of him as the raucous son of Nick Piunti, especially as he has appeared on previous Piunti albums. On this EP, the Poptastic flashes become a fully fledged reality. Vocals are softer, but the hooks are still plentiful.
It is as though he's been turned the noise down or matured. I do hope not because those Extra Arms adventures are incredibly raw and gripping and suit him down to the ground. However, I'm Not Mean is a beautifully produced slice of Pop Rock.
Indeed, on both Cut Your Teeth and To Be A Journalist, the vibe is more Glasgow Jangling Power Pop. The former has a wonderful return after a slight false ending. An instrumental harmonic riff and backing vocal. The latter is built around a corking Jangle riff and aided by a massive solo. Both are crackers.
Count With Me slows the pace and comes across a mix between 60's Beat Pop and 80's Indie Pop. I'm Not Mean is even more laid back, a Postcard label feel, a ballad even. A great, largely acoustic soundscape and a fine arrangement. This is wonderful and superior to much of the Jangle Pop out there at present.
You can listen to and buy the EP here.
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