In 2007, Austin pioneers The Laughing took the scene by storm with their Tiger Cry EP. The thematic release centered on a gang finding meaning through worshiping a mythical tiger and earned them shows with Tapes N Tapes, MGMT, Yeasayer, and Tokyo Police Club. With the new EP, Jungle, the former “boys in blue” have evolved into a darker, more sonically diverse sound that is simultaneously softer and heavier than their debut. When asked to explain the sound, the band suggests: “jungle smut core.”

The production quality of the release complements the band’s vision. Recorded by producers Erik Wofford (Explosions in the Sky, Voxtrot, Okkervil River etc) and Martin Crane (Brazos), vintage equipment, echo effects, and the layering upon layering of ambient sounds combine to create a concurrently eerie and danceable gathering of songs. During the recording of Jungle there was continual effort to bring in the sounds of old dub records, elements of hip-hop, psych rock, and yes, a love of Roxy Music.

This often contradictory, always innovative band has once again fashioned an avant album sure to gain attention. Jungle is not one to be missed.

Listen to “Canopy,” one of the more upbeat tracks from the EP:

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download “Canopy” (right-click and select Save As …)

Jungle smut core, yeah.