Take it from the dudes in Balboa and Towers, who know how to build an atmosphere: If you want to write a near-perfect epic screamo song, look to the opener on Elder's self-titled 10" EP, "Town of Clay." Everything you want in soft-hard/quiet-loud dynamics, budding guitars, huge, pounding drums and a desperate, pleading screamer atop it all is here.

The rest of Elder's EP isn't quite as overwhelming, but if you're looking for a well-done version of this á la Envy and City of Caterpillar, you've come to the right place. "Shifting Gaze" is an appropriately titled followup to "Town of Clay," finishing up the A side with more of an atmospheric and restrained touch. "Golden Flower" is a perfectly conclusive sounding number from the trio (!), with moments that recall Sirens-era On the Might of Princes.

Armando Morales' scream comes off a bit shrill at first, but with a few listens of the EP, you realize how fitting his voice is to the whole thing, and any hints of annoyance it may cause has completely dissipated. This isn't to mention that guitarist Craig Woods provides a nicely bellowed backup for him in "Town of Clay."

This is a really impressive release in so many aspects. Definitely recommended.

Golden Flower

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Shifting Gaze