Capable of replay-inducing pop innovation, London-based, New Zealand-born trio LA WOMEN explore a night of paranoia, excess, and eventual clarity throughout Control, their third EP. Across five songs, the release pairs propulsive basslines and synth-driven production with the group’s reflections on status, relationships, and chasing a high. The trio of Jake Schdroski, Zac Emerson, and Jesse Brown thoroughly impress here.
“BYOD” delights with a climactically dynamic sound, moving from debonair alt-pop intrigue to an anthemic chorus, reminding of Muse in its dramatic theatrics. “Doc, I need something strong, the hardest shit you got,” the opening delivery begins amidst throbbing bass and clanging piano, shifting to a singing allure in the “her dad’s a politician … she used to getting anything she wants” descriptor. “Set it up like dominoes,” the phrasing progresses into the smooth hook, culminating in the “bring your own drugs” hooky charisma. LA WOMEN’s knack for quality songwriting and catchy structural unveilings shines on this stellar track.
Even beyond the invigorating “BYOD,” Control is a stirring success in its entirety. Opener “Hell Of A Night” fuses a funk bass prowess with a suave spoken-word delivery in the verses, ascending to a soulfully magnetic croon in the title-referencing hook. Buzzy synths ensue as well, furthering the aesthetical appeal. The title track dazzles in its glitzy synths and driving rhythm section, leading into the alluring “out of control” refrain, while EP finale “We Want the Sun” showcases a more singer-songwriter charm in its hazy acoustics and introspective melodic dreaminess. Control is a riveting, standout EP from LA WOMEN.
