A limited edition release originally released for Record Store Day 2014, July sees a second batch of Clear Lake Forest pressed on ten inch vinyl. Described by Christian Bland as: “Seven tales of diamonds, executioners, and other strange occurrences await underneath the crystal waves lapping in the lake,” this seven track beast is a loud trip down an avenue of distortion. But would we really expect anything else from The Angels?

For those unfamiliar with The Black Angels, they hail from Austin and band member Bland is one of the key curators for the world renowned Austin Psych Fest. Their LP Indigo Meadow released last year, saw them tour the world including celebrated shows at Glastonbury and Glasgow’s Classic Grand. Their recent effort is a step-up from the hypnotic trip oozing out of the 13 track Indigo Meadow, darker, louder.

Opener ‘Sunday Morning’ sets a drone-infused tone that will carry this EP. A submissive beat and tempo pulls the song in and out of a nifty rock ‘n’ roll laced groove that meets us in the bridge. What’s most spectacular about this track though, is the explosion of percussion and as the tempo lifts we’re opened up to a dynamic track ticking all the boxes for an infectious garage rock tune.

‘Tired Eyes’ is overrun with guitar noise and taking over Alex Mass’ vocal are the symbols, clanging alongside guitar fuzz filling the airwaves.What’s the difference between tired eyes and ‘Diamond Eyes’? Diamonds are crystal clear, and this track is hypnotic and captivating with distinct beats and riffs all the way through. This is gentle for The Black Angels, Maas’ vocals fighting through the muffled bass distortion. A real gem on the EP.

‘An Occurrence at 4507 South Third’ is a true surprise. As it trots along with electronic beats and synths, Maas shows a more vulnerable side with this vocal performance. With the familiar fuzz and distortion introduced as this track tails off, its got nice Brian Jonestown Massacre elements.

With a classic Angels bone running through this album, its refreshing to see complete creative whirlpools thrown into the mix. More than looking forward to the live dates to come off the back of this.