Dead Heart Bloom – Oh Mercy EP

Fresh off the release of the enticing Fall In, the first in a series of three EPs for 2008, the core duo of Boris Skalsky and Paul Wood return with the second EP, Oh Mercy. This time though, Dead Heart Bloom display their chops in new ways, exploring a different and harder side of indie-rock but with equally compelling results.

The waves of frothy synths heard on Fall In have been replaced by deep, distorted bass lines and razor-edged guitar leads have been inserted in place of shimmering, shoegaze-y strums. Where Fall In used dreamy atmospherics, Oh Mercy uses angular, rambunctious chord changes to transform the sweeping alternative pop into a raw, rough and loud brand of bluesy punk rock.

Fortunately for us, Dead Heart Bloom did not replace their knack for songcraft. In fact both EPs contain entertaining and well-written songs that are equal parts rockin’, catchy and cool, even when stylistically so different. Even the vocals are altered to fit the particular musical species being expressed. Whether the slightly Bowie-like and smooth baritone heard on Fall In or the reverbed and Peter Murphy-like distortions of Oh Mercy, the singing always enhances the experience.

It’s amazing that Dead Heart Bloom have put out two commanding releases in such divergent genres. But they seem to have done it with ease and have proven they can not only imitate some reputable bands across styles, but can create their own brand of engaging rock music.