Welsh three piece The Decoy are often likened to bands like Biffy Clyro or Reuben, but their unique blend of math rock could also be compared to The Fall Of Troy. The way the band blend the technical riffs and musicianship with pop style hooks is what makes ‘Parasites’ such an interesting listen. Produced by Chris Coulter, who is known for his work with Arcane Roots, has done a stellar job of ensuring this record packs a real punch.

‘Moustache Cash Dash’ opens with a delectable vocal harmony, before the first crushing riff comes careering in. With its schizophrenic nature and soaring vocal melodies, it could easily be on Biffy’s ‘Infinity Land’. Clocking in at just over a minute and a half, it contains more musical ideas than many whole pop albums.

Drummer Luke Blake introduces second track ‘Vultures’ which provides another mash up of genres and ideas. With a riff that sounds like something Four Year Strong would write, and the lyrical content of your average pop song, it is interesting indeed. The second half of the track sees us firmly back into Math Rock territory. The influence of producer Coulter can definitely be heard towards the end when a fantastic Arcane Roots style riff kicks in.

The rest of ‘Parasites’ continues in the same startlingly good fashion. It has been a long time since a first EP was as well rounded and well written as this. It really sets the bar high for not only their live show but also future releases. The mismatch of genres, timings and melodies that really shouldn’t work end up creating the most glorious and hard hitting collection of songs you will hear this year. Perhaps it could be slightly more cohesive as an EP as currently it can be quite a jarring listen, but this will only come with time as The Decoy find their own sound. Look out for these guys, the musicianship displayed here is nothing short of amazing.

4/5

‘Parasite’ EP by The Decoy is out now on Ghoulish Records.

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Words by Andy McGonigle (@andyjmcg87)