Two decades ago, San Diego post hardcore legends Drive Like Jehu created a marriage of calculative signatures and punk ferocity to great and lasting effect. Their legacy has inspired many a band, particularly on this debut album by Neev. Entitled ‘Those Things We Tomorrowed’, this Tennessee group concoct a fresh and energetic mix of post hardcore, math rock and emo. Despite only lasting under fifteen minutes, Neev hold an omnipotent knack for opening the pores to the listener’s vibrant senses. The minute by minute twists and turns are charming and visceral, like a villainous cad; they delight you with tricks, whilst viscerally slicing all that is pure.
Those Things We Tomorrowed by Neev
Neev dabble in the fine art of angular rhythms and noodley tunings that dip and dive in satisfaction. ‘The Same’ and ‘Painted’ are fine examples of this, especially when they transition in urgency, a consistent theme throughout. The screams, who are passengers on this ride, maintain the biting anxiety and neediness the band convey. A highlight of the record, ‘They Call It an Event Horizon’ works all the aforementioned qualities to a nice touch with a capital t. The opening strums ring in one ear, before they whirl in the usual twiddley mayhem and soon enough transcend in an ambient influenced soundscape, taking the anguish with it to a fade out. What should also be mentioned is strength in twee melodies. They help to give lightness to the ever heavy hearted weight by the yells. Take last song ‘;’ for instance, it begins a skipping beat of strings, drums and yells until the descent into madness.
For what it’s worth, I really like this record. Neev have mastered a fine brushstroke in post hardcore and math rock here. The rhythms innovatively shift to sweet and hellish predicaments, whilst the delivery is confidently sharp. Yet, the only criticism is that it’s so damn short, plus I doubt this band have yet to reach their peak of creativity. Regardless, this record is a really good starting point towards something special, so enjoy if you will.
4/5
‘Those Things We Tomorrowed’ by Neev is out now on Little League Records.
Neev links: Facebook|Website|Twitter
Words by Aaron Lohan (@ooran_loohan)
