Vaya

With the release of this absolutely astounding 7 song, 23+ minute EP, At The Drive-In seem to have finally come together and found the true and beautiful essence of their music. They have taken the raw intensity and power of their earlier efforts, and focused upon it- bringing forth something that surpasses anything they have done to this point. The first and perhaps most original song on the album 'Rascuache' is filled with slightly tribal rhythms interwoven with beautiful electronic tones, fierce guitars and the passionate vocals that ATDI are known for. Some of the other tracks such as '300 MHz' and 'Metronome Arthritis' take the sound that was established on 'in/CASINO/OUT' and mix it with a Rage Against The Machine type feel, without sounding redundant. The last track '198d' is filled with such emotion that it is nearly impossible to resist repeating it time and again. Overall, 'Vaya' shows an incredible band moving in a direction so exciting and overwhelming that will leave many dying to see what they do next. ~ Blake Butler|