It’s one thing to be a band that combines multiple genres and influences; it’s another to be a band that does so seamlessly and without breaking a sweat. Milwaukee “post-hardcore grunge-gaze” outfit Crash House is an example of the latter. On the group’s terrific debut EP Blueprints, the aforementioned genres comfortably share space with a little bit of emo, a little bit of metal, and plenty of style-spanning songwriting chops. That it never feels forced is a testament to the young band’s talent.
Opener “Heartstrings” nicely blends jagged post-hardcore instrumentation with shoegaze-y vocals from Reece Decorah, and even makes time for some acoustic guitar licks. “2004 Yellow Chevy Cavalier” features old-school arpeggio guitar shredding, a double-time chorus, and a touch of unhinged percussion. This is Crash House at its most genre-hopping and inventive.
Elsewhere, “Dope Occasion” uses a subtle synth to build to a false ending before launching into a final musical fit. “Mile High” is easily the EP’s most hazy and atmospheric moment, and maybe its (mile-)high water mark. That song transitions into closer “New Days,” which caps things off like an extended victory lap. Far from a first draft as the title might suggest, Blueprints is a fantastic final product.
Crash House will celebrate the release of Blueprints on Sunday, August 9 at Cactus Club. Sky Pine Drive, Overhand, and Weeklong Weekend will play in support.
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