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Written by Josh Vise Friday, 15 February 2008 06:59

Eat Sugar is one of those groups whose sound encompasses several genres without conforming to any single one.

When given an album to review, music journalists have a very daunting task. We must translate the language of music into the printed word. Inevitably, the same terms pop up. We find ourselves asking, "Is this a surf-rock band with electronic influences, or an electronic band with rock influences?" These classifications have become so convoluted that I find little value trying to pin a label on all but the most genre-conforming groups.

Eat Sugar is exactly one of those groups whose sound encompasses several genres without conforming to any single one. Their self-titled release infuses punk with electronic elements to create a fresh, if not altogether unique, sound. While many rock bands have added fresh blood to their music with synthetic sounds, few manage to integrate it as well. The overall sound is harsh without being overly aggressive, poppy without the sugar coating.

At four tracks, the EP will definitely leave fans wanting more. The overwhelming hit of the album is "I'm a Carrier." Their soon-to-be-trademark synth sounds come together with frenetic vocals and a driving guitar, and the result is an energetic, up-tempo song sure to please fans of the punk aesthetic.

The final verdict: If these four tracks are any indication of what this band is capable of, than we have certainly not heard the last of Eat Sugar. High-octane music with a synthetic twist. B | Josh Vise

RIYL: God Lives Underwater, Hot Hot Heat

Eat Sugar MySpace page