Given that it's a split release between a well-established group and one making its U.S. debut, the best thing about 2016's Fatso Jetson / del-Toros 7” may be how well its two tracks play alongside one another. Self-proclaimed “godfathers of the desert rock scene,” California's Fatso Jetson kick off the record with the churning “Dream Homes.” Conveying a sense of vague unease that stands in contrast to its title, the piece morphs and evolves in subtle ways over the course of a hypnotic near-seven minutes, at times evoking an almost Slint-like quality through its use of slithery, intertwining guitar. The Netherlands' del-Toros follow up with “Die Cast,” a track in which twangy, surf rock guitar is backed up by a pummeling rhythm section. Increasingly hectic in its middle stages, it falls back into a heavy, headbanging groove as it wraps up, occasionally incorporating cryptic sound samples to further intrigue a listener. A worthy addition to a diverse field of 2016 Record Store Day releases (boasting some cool cover art to boot), this split 7” should please those who dig controlled instrumental ferocity.
