"Robbers" EP by Robbers

By Kris Walsh

Confusion. Bewilderment. Utter insanity. My head hurts. Where’s my wallet? Keep those filthy Robbers away from my money! Those were the first thoughts to shoot through my poor, fragile mind after listening to this CD for the first time. While I was sober when I jumped into my car and turned my player on, I soon found myself swerving to the side of the road as a result of my brain coming under assault from a most dire, wrath-filled mind, thirsty for vengeance for a misdeed long-forgotten, through prestidigitation and legerdemain. I was bombarded by strange alien sounds that were doubtlessly to make my head explode. How I survived seemed like a mystery at the time, but now I know better. While the style and composure of Robbers’ new six-track album is highly foreign, there is something hidden within that earns this band my respect.

If you’re accustomed to generic rock or pop, prepare for a curveball you won’t forget. Robbers have a sound that greatly differs from that which you’d find in the mainstream – and something that can only be appreciated by those who venture into the deep, dark rabbit-hole of experimental music frequented by bands like Joan of Arc, Owls and Liars. At first, I thought much of the EP was filled with nothing but pretentious, avant-garde stunts that mimic true art – but a close listen reveals a piece of real, if eldritch, sound. There are a few instances where the band’s attempts at standing out end with them stumbling about clumsily and ruin a moment, but persistent listeners might find themselves moving to the beat regardless, possibly coming to love each song for its quirks. I personally believe there were a few moments where Robbers were “trying too hard,” but their sound is refreshing enough to make it forgivable.

The EP begins with an epic piece called “Aches,” a song that distinctly reminds me of professional composer Akira Yamaoka’s work done with Konami for the videogame series Silent Hill. It’s not because I connect the song with grotesque monsters and dark alleyways, it’s that the song communicates a dark and dreary tale, with a bold, but mysterious atmosphere. While it may not be the dream of most musicians to have their songs sound like something they’d hear coming from their game-station of whatever sort, to have this level of sophistication in a single song is already leaps and bounds ahead of many local-level bands.

While I personally feel the rest of the tracks lack what gives me the emotional response “Aches” gives, the others song are not without merit. “Friends and Family” shows an advanced understanding of syncopation, while others like “Relentless” also display their superior rhythmic ability. Overall, this album shows that Robbers are a band of sophisticated musicians with very unique talents, and certainly worth your time. The only thing one needs to consider before listening to this album is if whether or not they are ready to experience the otherworldly.

Track List:
1) Aches
2) Friends and Family
3) Deadly
4) Relentless
5) I Due
6) Leave Liar

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