Originally recorded three years ago, it’s taken until now for the Night Crash’s debut 12” to reach the public. For the most part instrumental, the Brisbane two-piece strafe recklessly between and beyond extremes, exploiting every notch of dynamism inherent in the technical metal that influences them, while stifling any inclination towards gratuitous showmanship. The compact drums and guitar ensemble achieves a rather subtle, minimalist complexity, even when the sawing guitar is riding gratingly at the top of the neck.

The Night Crash’s approach is effective for one significant reason: the percussionist is liberated. In fact, the drummer practically runs this show, often trailblazing ahead, leaving the guitar sounding a bit befuddled or confused. Sometimes the guitar appears to skid a few feet when brashly chasing the percussion around tight bends, losing precious time in the race to finish each song. The fact that it manages to snap back like some thick cumbersome elastic every time is impressive and lots of fun.

Despite citing My Disco as an influence, this band doesn’t play like the rhythmic arm of their forces need hold strict tenure of the melodic. There are occasional moments of song-like coherence – especially during the Spiderland-centric third track – but for the most part the Night Crash seem determined to fit as much energy and chaos into the smallest sonic area possible. The results are raucously entertaining.

by Shaun Prescott