End of Daze - EP

Sometimes less is more. This EP packs a concentrated punch, distilling the group's essence into five tracks, including an inspired, droning cover of Strawberry Switchblade's "Trees and Flowers." The four originals written by Dee Dee are melodically strong but (more importantly) sonically focused, offering swirling riffs and mystical ambience. "Mine Tonight" is girl-group shoegaze at its most effective: lazy enough to float but strong enough to carry a gorgeous tune. "I Got Nothing" adds a rocker's verve. "Lord Knows" builds a cathedral of sound, with deep reverb, amassed vocals, and an organ holding down the bottom end. "Season in Hell" recalls The Cure's mid-'80s output and, really, all great pop music, past and present.