'Jazzy Noise' and 'Synth Screamo' are just descriptions I've seen for Rolo Tomassi. And to be fair both are completely and utterly wide of the mark - I don't think you can pigeonhole these kids because they just don't sound like anything I've ever heard. And while Enter Shikari continue to make massive waves with their bleep, bleep hardcore noise, Rolo Tomassi are taking a very DIY route despite, I'm sure, being able to go with a large indie, if not more.
This 6-track EP clocks in just short of 30 minutes and is a bit bizarre to say the least. While you have to marvel at the talent and the complexity of the songs, Rolo Tomassi's EP just doesn't flow all that well. Infact each song is like a mini album of its own, with breakdowns, screams, a little singing and a whole manner of samples, synths and little noises buried amongst a mass of bass, drums and guitars. This makes Rolo Tomassi fascinating, if a little bewildering, listening. And I'm sure it makes them intense watching in a live setting too.
But for your casual music fan, I'm just not sure how I can describe it. It's good because it's performed so damn well - the randomness of it all would sound awful if the band weren't shit hot - yet is almost so completely incoherent and inaccesible that I know full well I probably won't listen again. For kids in tight jeans and swept fringes, Rolo Tomassi could be the new poster boys (and girl) to rival Bring Me The Horizon for Kerrang! to drool over. But while I can acknowledge the cleverness and complexities, I'm not sure if this EP has won me over as a fan.
» Official Website
» Listen on Myspace
