Review
Street Eaters
Simple Distractions EP

The info surrounding this EP talks about how Street Eaters have changed. The band formed roughly a decade ago, so there’s always going to be evolution and whatnot -- and there is even a new shape to the band on Simple Distractions, as they’ve officially become a three-piece. Still, the first thing I hear on the opening title track is that rumbling bass that defines Street Eaters’ sound. Stevo (also of Tony Molina Band plays guest guitar on this album, with Joan DeToro lined up as the new full-time guitarist.)

So there you have it: Street Eaters is no longer a duo, but a trio with actual guitar in addition to the long-present bass and drums base. But believe it or not, it isn’t that different -- until the final song, which is also a cover. The title track probably pops the most, with that dirty bass tone that ultimately drives and pummels. Megan March’s vocals grow from weary to powerful, with timely harmonies courtesy of John No. There’s even a bit o’ guitar that nicely bridges it together but doesn’t feel at all out of place with the established sound. It’s the perfect way to introduce such a line-up addition. It’s also just a damn good song that explores isolation and injustice with a personal instead of political angle. “Sophia” follows a similar formula: it’s a rocker, with more vocal trade-offs and that relatable yet driving energy. It’s the kind of rock-influenced punk that sounds familiar, but unique enough that the band immediately jumps from the pack. A balance of heart and force with well placed vocal and tempo shifts, plus subtle songwriting techniques that avoid sounds like “just another punk band.” In fact, I’d argue Street Eaters are far more about punk ethics than genre. It has some of the crossover straight-up rock feel of a band like Big Eyes, making it hard to pigeonhole.

No takes lead vocals on “Loose Grip,” and it’s a little more of a melodic even-keel flow, a head bopper more than a pogo pit. Then they close it all out with a Gang of Four cover, “Love Like Anthrax,” which is a big sonic jump that’s truer to the original. It’s nice to see Street Eaters hold their own while hitting new notes, so to speak, and it’s a good song even if it has that B-side feel. It’s also a live recording so, like I just said, it sounds a little tacked on due to the different production. It’s also the biggest guitar song on the EP, this time a guest appearance by Screaming Females’ Marissa Paternoster, who inspired the guitar addition by playing this song with the Street Eaters duo line-up on an earlier tour.

The 7” is available as a picture disc from Nervous Intent Records.